Urs Schmidt-Ott, University of Chicago
Professor
Chicago, Illinois
uschmid@uchicago.edu
Office:
(773) 834-9798
Bio/Research
I am interested in evolutionary developmental biology (Evo-Devo). In the laboratory, we study molecular and cellular mechanisms of embryonic development in insects, in particular dipterans (true flies). The dipterans constitute an extremely diverse group and are exceptionally suitable for studyin...
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Bio/Research
I am interested in evolutionary developmental biology (Evo-Devo). In the laboratory, we study molecular and cellular mechanisms of embryonic development in insects, in particular dipterans (true flies). The dipterans constitute an extremely diverse group and are exceptionally suitable for studying the evolution of developmental mechanisms. Firstly, the group includes a genetic model organism (Drosophila melanogaster) in which embryonic development has been studied in great detail. This “model fly” provides an excellent entry point for comparative molecular studies. Secondly, the phylogenetic history of dipterans has received much attention both through the works of systematics and paleontologists. Their insights provide essential background for our comparative approach. And thirdly, enormous medical and economic interest in various dipterans strengthens the “research infrastructure” for the whole group.
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