The McKenna Lab

Insect Systematics, Genomics, Evolution & Diversity

Our Research...

  • We study insect evolution with a focus on beetles, insect-plant interactions, Insect biodiversity and endemism, and the evolution and genomic basis of plant-feeding.

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  • We collect, analyze, and integrate data from individual genes and gene families, whole genomes, specimens preserved for morphology, and field studies of insects and their host plants and habitats.

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  • In recognition of the accelerating impacts of habitat loss/degradation and climate change on biodiversity, many projects have conservation biological goals and implications.

Word collage built from abstracts of papers published by the McKenna Lab using www.wordle.net
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HOW TO GET INVOLVED

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Have an idea for a collaborative project? Want to discuss the possibility of getting involved in an existing project? Contact Dr. McKenna

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RECENT RESEARCH HIGHLIGHT

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Gene content evolution in the arthropods; a summary from the Insect 5000 Genomes (i5k) Pilot Project... Check out our paper in Genome Biology.

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PROSPECTIVE STUDENTS & POSTDOCS

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Seeking a lab in which to pursue postdoctoral research or graduate studies?

Contact Dr. McKenna

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CENTER FOR BIODIVERSITY RESEARCH (CBio)

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CBio offers a wide range of opportunities in biodiversity science and education for researchers and students at the University of Memphis