This research project will apply new methods emerging from molecular biology to the area of plant systematic biology. The investigator will develop single copy nuclear gene sequences for comparative study using the family Solanaceae as a model system. Further applications of the methods will be made to higher level phylogenies in the angiosperms. %%% Research of this type is fundamental to understanding the basic lineage relationships among higher plants, many of which may be of agronomic importance. Futhermore, methods developed under this project will likely be valuable to a broad suite of other investigators.
