Detecting sex differences in natural selection (2018-2021)
Abstract
The evolutionary interests of males and females often differ, and therefore, the traits optimal for one sex may not be optimal for the other. These sex differences in natural selection are important for evolutionary diversification and sexual dimorphism but remain difficult to detect with conventional genomic methods. This project will develop new genomic approaches for understanding how genetic mutations can deferentially affect reproductive success in males and females. Applying these novel tests, we aim to uncover previously hidden genetic conflicts between the sexes. Our new tools will be broadly applicable to the wider research community, and help to answer key questions in genetics and evolutionary biology in the current genomic era.
