Our lab has long used the microcrustacean Daphnia as a model system for understanding the evolutionary links between genomics, cell / developmental biology, and ecology. Many aspects of the biology of this organism make it an optimal platform for connecting diverse areas of biology. Daphnia are found globally in most lakes and ponds. They reproduce both clonally and sexually, so genotypes can be maintained indefinitely in the lab, while controlled crosses can also be made. Current projects include:

• The establishment of an encyclopedia of complete and well-annotated genome sequences for ~25 species as a community resource for comparative studies.

• The sequencing of ~3000 natural isolates from three species to understand processes of mutation, recombination, random genetic drift, and divergence at the population-genomic level.

• To determine the degree to which populations experience fluctuating selection over time, one population is being studied on an annual basis, with a series of 14 consecutive years of population-genomic data having now been obtained.

• An atlas of gene expression for the full transcriptome is being developed across developmental stages and tissues, including at the single-cell level. In addition, we are currently trying to get CRISPR-Cas9 working more efficiently, so we can perform genetic transformations.

• We have discovered a novel, widespread variant that prevents carriers from producing male offspring, and are now attempting to identify the molecular mechanisms involved in the conversion of environmental to genetic sex determination.

• We are merging the field of bioenergetics with life-history theory through studies on the energetic budgets of organisms throughout their lives and the degree to which this is determined by cellular allocations and respiration requirements in size-specific manners.