Friedman Lab, Syracuse University | 256 Life Sciences |
Office: 315.443.1564 Lab: 315.443.8193 | friedman@syr.edu
Research in the Friedman Lab spans a range of topics in plant evolution and ecological genetics. Our aim is to understand how ecological factors like climate, abiotic conditions, pollinators and demography can result in the evolution of alternative reproductive strategies. We are interested in how these ecological and evolutionary patterns are shaped by their underlying genetic factors, including genetic trade-offs and constraints, and whether the genetic basis of traits of interest are simple or complex. Research in the lab uses an integrative approach, including some combination of field work, manipulative experiments, quantitative genetics, genomics, comparative biology and theory.
Current projects address these issues in the context of transitions between annual and perennial life history strategies, and transitions between animal and wind pollination.
Wind-pollinated species with diverse morphologies: A) Carex pedunculata (Cyperaceae); B) Gunnera peltata (Gunneraceae); C) Leucadendron rubrum (Proteaceae). This species is dioecious with extreme sexual dimorphism (female left; male right); D) Pennisetum clandestinum (Poaceae); note the anthers extended on very long filaments to aid in pollen dispersal.
Photos A,B,C by S.C.H. Barrett, D by L.D. Harder.
