Nathan Lovejoy

Teaching Interests

• BIOB52H: Ecology and Evolutionary Biology Laboratory
• BIOC51H: Tropical Marine Ecology and Evolution (Coordinator)
• BIOD52H: Senior Seminar in Biodiversity and Conservation Biology

Research Interests

Our research focuses on the discovery and interpretation of patterns of biodiversity at a variety of taxonomic and geographical scales. We use historical (phylogenetic) approaches to investigate questions that encompass the evolution of ontogeny, biogeography, function, behaviour, and population structure. A particular interest is the role that geography plays in the genesis and organization of genetic and taxonomic diversity. We use fishes as model organisms, with particular emphasis on tropical marine and freshwater species. However, our lab is also interested in the evolution of insects.

Keywords:

• molecular phylogenetics
• ecology & evolution
• fish

Research Area: Conservation Ecology and Evolution, Cell and Molecular Biology, Neuroscience and Behaviour

Current Research

The Lovejoy lab is well-equipped for evolutionary genetic research, with several PCR machines and other standard equipment for molecular analysis, bioinformatics, and phylogenetics.

Field work is an integral aspect of our lab's research, and we participate in, and organize collection and study expeditions to sites around the world. During trips to Latin American countries, we collaborate with local scientists and students to document and catalog biodiversity.

Ongoing projects include:
Evolution of development: needlefish jaws
Evolution of function: flying fish
Phylogeny, biogeography and evolution of electric fish
Population structure and speciation of fishes