This study will examine the origins and population affinities of the aboriginal populations of Australia and New Guinea by use of three different genetic systems: mitochondrial DNA, human leucocyte antigen genes, and short tandem repeat markers on the Y chromosome. Specific aims of the project include 1) clarification of biological and historical relationships between Australian and New Guinean populations, 2) testing for single or multiple episodes of migration to Sahul (the Pleistocene continent that included Australia, New guinea, and Tasmania), 3) identifying possible sources and routes for the migration into Sahul, and 4) testing the concordance of the three genetic systems in reconstructing population histories. Genetic analyses will involve system specific considerations such as differences in inheritance pattern, effective population size, and mutation rates. Phylogenetic, population subdivision, and demographic expansion analyses of the data from these three genetic systems will provide rich insights into the genetic history of the occupation of Sahul.

Agency
National Science Foundation (NSF)
Institute
Division of Behavioral and Cognitive Sciences (BCS)
Type
Standard Grant (Standard)
Application #
9617272
Program Officer
Mark L. Weiss
Project Start
Project End
Budget Start
1997-02-15
Budget End
1998-01-31
Support Year
Fiscal Year
1996
Total Cost
$9,800
Indirect Cost
Name
Pennsylvania State University
Department
Type
DUNS #
City
University Park
State
PA
Country
United States
Zip Code
16802