Speciation genetics

The Dopman Lab explores the processes underlying the origin and maintenance of biodiversity in a changing world. We study how variation arises, mechanistically, through genetic and nongenetic mechanisms (Kozak et al. 2019; Unbehend et al. 2021) as well as the ecological factors promoting and maintaining the endless forms we see around us (Michielini et al. 2021; Dopman et al. 2024). 

This project will address the factors responsible for the divergence of populations during the speciation process. 

Name of research group, project, or lab
Dopman Lab
Website
https://as.tufts.edu/biology/dopman-lab/research
Why join this research group or lab?

A fundamental problem for biology is to understand biodiversity. Ernst Mayr (1904–2005) famously wrote that two domains of inquiry could tackle this issue — ‘functional’ biology and evolutionary biology. Mayr thought that whereas the functional biologist might be interested in how variation arises, mechanistically, through genetic and nongenetic factors, the evolutionary biologist is preoccupied by why diversity occurs in the first place. Fortunately, the boundaries between these domains have become rather blurry, allowing our group to apply a unified framework that seeks both functional and evolutionary explanations for biological diversity in nature. Our studies draw on approaches from numerous disciplines (ecology, genomics, physiology, molecular genetics), often in the context of adaptive evolution, sustainability, population resilience, and the origin of new species.

Logistics Information:
Project categories
Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry
Ecology, Behavior, and Evolution
Student ranks applicable
1st year undergraduate
2nd year undergraduate
3rd year undergraduate
Masters
Student qualifications

Students should have taken Bio 13 or Bio 14, or the equivalent. Preference will be given to students who can commit to spending multiple summers or semesters working in the lab. Experience with molecular genetics, entomology, behavior, or coding/bioinformatics is a plus. 

To apply for this opportunity, address the following points, and note that use of AI in your application is disqualifying.

  1. Explain your motivation, what you hope to gain from the experience, and current career plans
  2. List your previous research experience and skills or techniques learned
  3. List your relevant courses and grades
  4. Confirm, if appropriate, your availability to spend multiple summers or semesters working in the lab. Research during the academic year can be for academic credit (Bio 93/94 or 193/194).
  5. Optional: Write a short proposal of a project that would be interesting based on one of our papers published in the last 5 years. The proposal does not have to match this opportunity, should be less than 250 words, and should state your research question and the approach you would use to address your question. 
Hours per week
10-15hrs/wk
15+hrs/wk
Compensation
Paid - General
Paid - Work-Study Required
Unpaid - Course Credit
Unpaid - Volunteer
Number of openings
1
Techniques learned

Responsibilities will depend on the specific project, but they may include:

  • Conduct molecular biology and genetic assays, including DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, and gel electrophoresis.
  • Assist in maintaining insect colonies.
  • Conduct whole-organism behavioral, physiological, or ecological experiments.
  • Perform data entry, organization, and basic statistical analyses.
  • Assist with fieldwork and sample collection as needed.
  • Maintain laboratory cleanliness and adhere to safety protocols.
  • Participate in lab meetings and contribute to discussions on research findings.
Project start
Summer 2025
Contact Information:
Mentor
Erik Dopman
Erik.Dopman@tufts.edu
Principal Investigator
Name of project director or principal investigator
Dr. Erik Dopman
Email address of project director or principal investigator
erik.dopman@tufts.edu
1 sp. | 1 appl.
Hours per week
10-15hrs/wk (+1)
10-15hrs/wk15+hrs/wk
Project categories
Ecology, Behavior, and Evolution (+1)
Molecular Genetics and BiochemistryEcology, Behavior, and Evolution