Günther group

The gene pool of a population changes over time due to various different demographic processes such as migrations, admixture, population bottlenecks as well as selection. We are using population genomic approaches to study these processes. A special focus is on using genomic ancient DNA as a time capsule which allows to directly study how populations changed over time. Our main projects are focused on understanding the prehistory of humans in Europe and the genomic history of animal domestication. We are using the domestication process as a model for evolution with strong selection and as an example of how humans can influence other species. In addition to analyzing genomic data, we are interested in developing and improving computational methods to analyze ancient DNA data, and to study demographic history and adaptation.