Epigenetic variation in the genotype-phenotype map
In the Webster lab, we are interested in understanding the basis of individual differences in quantitative traits and the consequences of these differences across generations. We use the roundworm C. elegans, which allows us to generate many genetically identical individuals across multiple genotypes and subject them to controlled environmental conditions at scale. Our research has broad implications from both a health perspective (why are some individuals more likely to have a certain trait or disease?) as well as from an evolutionary perspective (how do individual differences shape population dynamics over time?). We are particularly focused on understanding how differences in gene expression and chromatin can both cause and predict phenotypic differences across individuals, how these differences interact with genetic and environmental variation, and how heritable epigenetic effects may shape populations on short and long timescales. For our work, we use a variety of approaches, including molecular biology, bioinformatics, statistics, genetic engineering, and mathematics.
We are recruiting at all levels, including postdoctoral researchers, graduate students, undergraduate students, and technicians. Please see the Join tab for more information and reach out to Amy with any questions.