Phylogenomics, phylogeography and trait evolution
I have a particular interest in phylogenetic reconstruction, especially at low phylogenetic levels (among closely related species) between the boundary of phylogenetics/phylogeography/population genetics. My studies have been centered in reconstructing the phylogenetic relationships of species-rich groups, including Neotropical orchids, island radiations and more recently trees from the Congo-Guinean region in tropical Africa. I have used a combined approach that includes morphological, anatomical and genomic data in order to reconstruct the phylogenetic relationships within these groups. My main objectives are: 1) to generate new genomic resources of under represented taxa, 2) to develop and improve protocols used in the utilization of plant specimens from herbaria (ancient DNA, type specimens) and botanical gardens, and 3) to apply bioinformatic approaches using next generation sequencing (NGS) data at different taxonomic levels for non-model species. My long term goal is the improvement of current taxonomy and nomenclature, and the development of an evolutionary framework to study patterns of colonization, dating radiation (speciation) events and to understand the evolution of morphological traits.