We study the evolution of behaviour in insects, particularly sexual and reproductive behaviour.
Insect reproductive behaviour encompasses many beguiling and often bizarre traits. Our research uses both whole-organism and genetic approaches, in the lab and the field, to try and understand this diversity of reproductive behaviour. For instance, to what extent are the behaviours we see adaptive? Or is behaviour better viewed as a compromise between conflicting selection pressures? If so, how do these compromises play out? Also, to what extent is behavioural evolution constrained by the mechanisms underpinning the behaviour, or the evolutionary history of the animal?
If these are the sorts of questions that interest you, for the latest news on available post-doc positions, PhD studentships, and undergraduate research experience, please see our opportunities page or email me at:
Dr David Shuker
Harold Mitchell Building
University of St Andrews
St Andrews
Fife
KY16 9TH
United Kingdom
Tel: +44 (0)1334 463376
Fax: +44 (0)1334 463366