How do neural circuits evolve to generate behavioral diversity?

We seek to decode the genetic and neural logic underlying the evolution of innate behavior. We study courtship behavior in closely related Drosophila species to understand how changes in neural circuits generate behavioral diversity across species. By investigating how evolutionary changes reshape neural circuit assembly and computation, we aim to uncover the general principles governing the evolution of neural circuits and behavior.

Behavior

Neurophysiology

Connectomics

Research Themes

  • How does synaptic rewiring alter motor circuit activity and behavioral output?

  • How do neural circuits preserve some behaviors while allowing others to change?

  • How do species-specific circuits arise from changes in developmental programs?

Learn more on the Research page.

Join us?

The lab will launch at Emory University in January 2027.

We are looking for motivated graduate students, postdocs, technicians, and undergraduates to join us in studying the evolution of neural circuits and behavior.

Learn more on the Join the Lab page.