What historical factors and genetic mechanisms are behind vertebrate diversity?

In our department, we study how the body shape, internal structure and function of different vertebrates have been changed by evolution. We use information from fossils and living animals, and also investigate the underlying developmental biology and genetic processes that give rise to the diversity we see in vertebrates today. Of particular interest is reconstructing the order in which character traits have arisen over time. By linking this to how the expression of genes affects the development from embryo to adult individual, we can better understand the evolutionary history of vertebrates.

Wallenbergsstiftelserna have made a film showing some of our research.