About the talk

Epigenetics investigates phenotypic variation that is not accompanied by changes in DNA sequence, but involves the set of chromatin modifications that regulate the ability of a certain genome to express diverse phenotypes. In our group, we have combined the assessment of epigenetic variation in wild plant populations at different spatial scales with experimental approaches, that combine a controlled alteration of epigenetic features (e.g., by applying demethylating agents) with exposure to some biotic and abiotic stress factors. I will discuss here what we have learned from applying these two approaches to multiple non-model plant species.

About the speaker

I am a Plant Evolutionary Ecologist particularly interested in the ecological interactions between plants and animals, the evolution of plant mating system and the contribution of epigenetic regulation in shaping these two evolutionary processes in wild populations. My favourite study systems are located in mountaineous areas and Mediterranean ecosystems.