Cresko Laboratory
Evolutionary Genomics at the University of Oregon
We study the genomic basis of evolutionary change using the threespine stickleback fish as our primary model system. Our research combines field studies, laboratory experiments, and computational approaches to understand how organisms adapt to changing environments.
Research Areas
Our laboratory investigates fundamental questions in evolutionary biology through an integrative approach combining genomics, ecology, and bioinformatics.
Parallel Evolution & Adaptation — We study how independent populations evolve similar solutions to environmental challenges, revealing the predictability of evolution and the genetic architecture of adaptive traits.
Host-Microbiome Dynamics — Using stickleback as a model, we explore how host genetic variation shapes microbial communities and how these interactions influence adaptation.
Genomic Tool Development — We developed RAD-seq technology and the Stacks software pipeline, now used by thousands of researchers worldwide for population genomics analyses.
Learn more about our projects →
Recent Highlights
Publications
- Host genomic variation shapes gut microbiome diversity (mBio 2023)
- Seadragon genomes reveal syngnathid evolution (PNAS 2022)
- Single-cell sequencing for genome annotation (Genetics 2022)
News
- Bill Cresko awarded Lorry Lokey Endowed Chair
- Emily Niebergall receives Goldwater Fellowship
- Lab members win six conference awards
- Rapid evolution paper featured in PNAS
Team
Led by Bill Cresko, our lab includes research scientists, postdoctoral scholars, graduate students, and undergraduates working together on evolutionary questions.
Join Us
We welcome inquiries from prospective graduate students, postdocs, and undergraduates interested in:
- Evolutionary genomics and adaptation
- Host-microbiome interactions
- Bioinformatics and computational biology
- Population genetics and phylogenomics
Contact
William A. Cresko, Ph.D.
Institute of Ecology and Evolution
University of Oregon
312 Pacific Hall
Eugene, OR 97403