Rokyta Lab Research Summary

Research in the Rokyta lab is currently focused on developing robust and empirically verified models of adaptive evolution. We construct models that predict the statistical properties of adapting populations and then test both model predictions and assumptions using a viral system. The viruses we use are bacteriophages that infect Escherichia coli and readily adapt to controlled conditions in the lab, allowing repeated observation of the evolutionary process. We also use these viruses to investigate basic properties of organisms that affect the way they evolve, including epistatic interactions and the genotype-phenotype-fitness relationship.

Adaptation Theory

The Rokyta lab develops predictive models of adaptation based on two main assumptions: adaptation happens in the space of DNA sequences and beneficial mutations are rare. These models are formulated in the context of the evolution of a single gene or small genome and are intended to make robust predictions of patterns in the genetics of adaptation. More adaptation theory.

Viral Evolution

The Rokyta lab studies the bacteriophages of the family Microviridae in both natural and laboratory settings. Because of their short generation times, bacteriophages can adapt to new conditions in the laboratory over the course of days. We can therefore observe and characterize evolution as it happens in the lab under controlled and repeatable conditions. More laboratory evolution. This type of short-term evolutionary data is nicely complemented by studies of longer-term evolution in natural settings. We can sample an almost limitless supply of naturally occurring viral genotypes and use statistical genetics approaches to elucidate their evolutionary history. More environmental evolution.

		Darin R. Rokyta, PhD Assistant Professor Lab: 4070 King Life Sciences Office: 4058 King Life Sciences Map Contact send email Lab: (850) 645-8817 Office: (850) 645-8812


Home Research -Adaptation Theory -Experimental Viral Evolution -Environmental Viral Evolution People Publications Positions Available Links News Courses	Rokyta Lab Research Summary Research in the Rokyta lab is currently focused on developing robust and empirically verified models of adaptive evolution. We construct models that predict the statistical properties of adapting populations and then test both model predictions and assumptions using a viral system. The viruses we use are bacteriophages that infect Escherichia coli and readily adapt to controlled conditions in the lab, allowing repeated observation of the evolutionary process. We also use these viruses to investigate basic properties of organisms that affect the way they evolve, including epistatic interactions and the genotype-phenotype-fitness relationship. Adaptation Theory The Rokyta lab develops predictive models of adaptation based on two main assumptions: adaptation happens in the space of DNA sequences and beneficial mutations are rare. These models are formulated in the context of the evolution of a single gene or small genome and are intended to make robust predictions of patterns in the genetics of adaptation. More adaptation theory. Viral Evolution The Rokyta lab studies the bacteriophages of the family Microviridae in both natural and laboratory settings. Because of their short generation times, bacteriophages can adapt to new conditions in the laboratory over the course of days. We can therefore observe and characterize evolution as it happens in the lab under controlled and repeatable conditions. More laboratory evolution. This type of short-term evolutionary data is nicely complemented by studies of longer-term evolution in natural settings. We can sample an almost limitless supply of naturally occurring viral genotypes and use statistical genetics approaches to elucidate their evolutionary history. More environmental evolution.