Our lab studies the ecology, evolution, and development of amphibians (frogs, salamanders, & caecilians). Our research aims to link phylogenetic patterns of diversity with underlying developmental mechanisms to better understand the evolutionary processes that generate phenotypic variation. Some of the current projects in the lab are highlighted below.

Our work integrates micro-computed tomography (microCT),  histology, phylogenetic comparative methods, ecological data, and developmental genetics to test macroevolutionary questions. We collect data in the lab, in the field, and in natural history collections.  Interested in learning more? Contact me at [email protected]!

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Current projects

Ecology, Evolution, and Development of Amphibian Teeth
Compared to other vertebrates, the teeth of frogs, salamanders, and caecilians have been understudied in the context of their diversity, development, function, and evolution. We have several ongoing projects in the lab focused on filling in this gap by characterizing the phylogenetic patterns of amphibian dental diversity, investigating the developmental genetics of amphibian tooth development, evaluating the underlying mechanisms of repeated tooth loss in frogs, and exploring the evidence for the re-evolution of lost mandibular teeth in frogs.

Developmental and Evolutionary Novelty in Tadpole Mouthparts
Tadpoles possess a highly modified head, typically including keratinized mouthparts composed of a beak and several rows of labial teeth (i.e., keratodonts, denticles). These complex structures play an important role in tadpole feeding—rasping plant material and detritus—and can vary dramatically in shape and size across species that differ in ecology. The development of the keratinized mouthparts in tadpoles is poorly understood and the evolutionary origin of these novel structures is also largely unknown. We are examining the development of tadpole mouthparts to identify the genes that govern the initiation, development, and replacement of these structures. We are also assessing the diversity, development, and function of other anuran feeding structures (e.g., tongue, taste buds, olfactory organs) through ontogeny and across species.
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Evolution of skull, skeleton, and osteoderm diversity
In addition to teeth, our lab studies the skull, skeleton, and osteoderms of vertebrates. These mineralized tissues are incredibly variable across species and represent excellent traits that can be visualized and quantified in order to test how evolutionary history, developmental contraints, and adaptation shape macroevolutionary patterns of phenotypic diversity. Current projects in the lab include studying the evolution of skull shape diversity in hemiphractid marsupial frogs, assessing osteoderm diversity across amphibians, and describing the skeletal morphology of several new species of neotropical frogs.