Kristin Alligood Receives NSF DDIG for Craniofacial Evolution Research
Kristin Alligood has been awarded an NSF Doctoral Dissertation Improvement Grant to investigate the genetic basis of craniofacial evolution in threespine stickleback!
This prestigious grant will support Kristin’s groundbreaking research identifying the genes that underlie craniofacial bone shape evolution in divergent stickleback populations, advancing our understanding of how morphological diversity arises through evolution.
Research Goals
The DDIG will support: - Genetic mapping of skull traits - QTL analysis of bone shape - Candidate gene identification - Functional validation - Evolutionary mechanisms
Craniofacial Evolution
Kristin’s work examines: - Adaptive morphological changes - Feeding ecology relationships - Developmental pathways - Genetic architecture - Natural selection effects
Innovative Approaches
The project combines: - Geometric morphometrics - Quantitative genetics - Developmental biology - Population genomics - Functional studies
Stickleback Diversity
Research leverages: - Natural variation - Divergent populations - Replicated evolution - Accessible genetics - Model organism advantages
Technical Methods
The grant supports: - High-resolution imaging - Shape analysis software - Genetic mapping - Gene expression studies - Statistical modeling
Evolutionary Questions
Addressing fundamentals: - How shapes evolve - Genetic basis of form - Developmental constraints - Adaptive significance - Evolutionary predictability
Training Excellence
This award provides: - Independent research experience - Advanced technical training - Grant management skills - Professional development - Career preparation
Expected Impacts
Anticipated outcomes: - Gene discovery - Publications - Method development - Conference presentations - Resource generation
Broader Significance
This work informs: - Evolutionary developmental biology - Medical genetics - Craniofacial disorders - Biodiversity understanding - Conservation biology
Mentorship Success
The award reflects: - Quality advising - Lab support - Resource availability - Collaborative environment - Training program strength
Building on Success
Adds to lab achievements: - Multiple DDIG awards - Strong funding record - Student recognition - Research excellence - National visibility
Future Directions
This research enables: - Postdoctoral opportunities - Continued collaborations - Method applications - Career advancement - Scientific impact
Outstanding achievement, Kristin! This support will advance our understanding of morphological evolution.