Profile

I'm currently working on these species doing this:

As a graduate student, I mostly worked on domesticated bird species. The idea there was to analyse their DNA to find changes in the DNA alphabet that have a negative effect on their survival and that in the long-term could drive these species to extinction. At the same time, I also looked for changes in the DNA that could explain why certain individuals have features/traits that others do not have. For example, I was able to clarify the genetic origin and cause of foot feathering, a very interesting trait that involves the development of feathers on the feet and ankle of certain bird species.

At the moment, on top of birds (definitely my favourites), I am working on other species including butterflies, moths, and fish. My objective is to identify and analyse regions in the genome that are similar – if not identical – among species. I am particularly interested in understanding when and how these regions have originated, how have they evolved, and what is they role (for example: are they responsible for certain features?). From a more practical perspective, I am continuing my work as conservation biologist, using DNA as a tool to inform conservation programmes of endangered species.