Nematodes are a group of unsegmented roundworms that can parasitize plants. Their simple morphology increases the difficulty of classifying them and of unravelling their evolutionary history. Dr. Virgina Ferris, a leading specialist on the systematics of nematodes, proposes to learn DNA mapping and sequencing and then apply these techniques to nematode systematics. Dr. Ferris' previous work using nematode morphology revealed some widely cited biogeographic patterns that are consistent with the history of continental drift. In order to test the patterns of descent suggested by morphology, the PI pioneered the use of enzyme electrophoretic analysis in nematode research. The infusion of new enzyme data from her lab has provided insight into morphological convergence between distantly related taxa. Dr. Ferris' intention to master molecular techniques represents a new level of sophistication for nematode systematics. Using data from morphology, enzymes, and DNA, Dr. Ferris will have unique insight into the evolution of the nematodes, and she will be setting a new standard for invertebrate systematics.
