In the CapituLab, we study how plants develop and how novel forms evolve.

The sunflower family (Asteraceae) is the largest plant family on Earth with ~30,000 species. Its success has been attributed to the evolution of novel forms, including the distinctive capitulum inflorescence and modified floral organs specialized for seed dispersal (called pappus). The primary focus of our lab is to understand the evolutionary and genetic basis of morphological diversity found throughout Asteraceae. To achieve this we utilize genomics and developmental techniques to build foundational tools for studying functional genetics in this important and diverse family