Investigating how natural populations evolve over time using genetic data

Population genomics with pedigrees: new approaches for studying contemporary evolution

NIH-funded research University of Rochester · NIH-10619026

This study looks at how Florida Scrub-Jays pass on their genes and change over time, helping us understand how birds adapt to their surroundings.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Rochester NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Rochester, United States)
Project IDNIH-10619026 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the short-term evolutionary dynamics of natural populations by combining genetic data with long-term demographic and pedigree information. By studying the Florida Scrub-Jay, a bird species with extensive historical data, the project aims to understand how genetic traits are passed down through generations and how they change over time. The approach involves tracking the inheritance of genomes and observing allele frequency changes in real-time, providing insights into contemporary evolution. This research could lead to a better understanding of how species adapt to their environments.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals interested in evolutionary biology, genetics, or those involved in conservation efforts.

Not a fit: Patients with no interest in genetics or evolutionary studies may not find direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of evolutionary processes, potentially informing conservation strategies and public health initiatives related to genetic diversity.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has successfully utilized long-term demographic data to study evolutionary processes, indicating that this approach has a foundation in established scientific methods.

Where this research is happening

Rochester, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.