Research in the Lemmon lab focuses on several aspects of evolutionary biology, including phylogenetics, phylogeography, speciation, population genetics, and genomics.

       We take a unique approach to developing these fields that includes the integration of computational, statistical, and empirical research. A complete understanding of any evolutionary process can only be obtained through the integration of empirical and theoretical research.  Thus, we strive to incorporate lab and field work into our research, in addition to collaborating extensively with empirical biologists.

       Our phylogenetic research has explored the use of genetic algorithms to solve difficult problems and used simulations to understand the effect of model mis-specification and missing data on accuracy in Bayesian phylogenetics.  Future research will develop methods for estimating phylogenies using genomic data.

       Our research in phylogeography has involved the development of a new maximum likelihood method for estimating patterns of migration across a continuous landscape using genetic data.  Future development of this method will employ Bayesian techniques to integrate genetic, environmental niche, and other types of data.  

       In collaboration with Emily Moriarty Lemmon, we are in the process of developing thousands of rapidly evolving nuclear markers for a group of North American frogs (Pseudacris).  These markers will allow us to take a novel genomic approach to both phylogenetics and phylogeography.