Exploring Evolution

Genetic Archaeology

April Harlin-Cognato

Harlin-Cognato’s research seeks to illuminate how variations in genes and morphology arise over generations. She is an assistant professor of zoology and fisheries and wildlife, as well as a member of MSU’s Ecology, Evolutionary Biology and Behavior Program.

• In a December 2006 issue of Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences Harlin-Cognato and her colleagues uncovered clues to one of the greatest gender bending mysteries in the world of fish: How did a family of fish come to embrace male pregnancy?

“We’re interested in the evolution of novelty and how novel traits evolve,” Harlin-Cognato said.

To learn more about Harlin-Cognato’s research, visit:

• Genetic archaeology offers clues to back-story of male pregnancy
• April Harlin-Cognato's work
  

(Photo credit: Charlyn Partridge)