Contact
Assistant Professor, Faculty of Science - Biological Sciences
- venney@ualberta.ca
Overview
Area of Study / Keywords
epigenomics evolutionary genomics phenotypic plasticity molecular evolution climate change molecular ecology multi-omics
About
https://clarevenney.weebly.com/
Research
Our research characterizes molecular drivers of phenotypic plasticity and their implications for acclimation, adaptation, and speciation. We focus on DNA methylation, an epigenetic, covalent DNA modification that influences transcription, alternative splicing, and mutagenesis. We aim to understand the potential for DNA methylation to act on an evolutionary continuum ranging from rapid, transient acclimation to induced mutagenesis, genetic divergence, and evolution.
Using a combination of field and experimental studies, we combine epigenomic methods with genomic, transcriptomic, environmental, and phenotypic data to determine the evolutionary implications of multi-omic variation. Our research focuses on fishes, especially freshwater and anadromous salmonids, with implications for our understanding of acclimation potential, evolution, and climate change adaptation, among other topics.
Courses
BIOL 207 - Molecular Genetics and Heredity
The chromosomal and molecular basis for the transmission and function of genes. The construction of genetic and physical maps of genes and genomes. Strategies for the isolation of specific genes. Examples of regulatory mechanisms for the expression of the genetic material in both prokaryotes and eukaryotes. Prerequisite: BIOL 107.
BIOL 411 - Ecological and Evolutionary Genomics
This course surveys the application of genomic approaches to problems of ecology and organismal evolution. It combines explanation of methodological and conceptual approaches with presentation and discussion of case studies. Topics include adaptation, speciation, genome evolution, metagenomics, population genomics, and functional genomics. Prerequisites: BIOL 207, 208, and 221. Credit cannot be obtained for both BIOL 411 and BIOL 511.
BIOL 511 - Ecological and Evolutionary Genomics
This course surveys the application of genomic approaches to problems of ecology and organismal evolution. It combines the explanation of methodological and conceptual approaches with presentation and discussion of case studies. Topics include adaptation, speciation, genome evolution, metagenomics, population genomics, and functional genomics. Seminars are the same as for BIOL 411 but with additional assignments and evaluations appropriate for graduate studies. Prerequisites: Consent of Department. Credit cannot be obtained for both BIOL 411 and BIOL 511.