An Automated DNA Sequencer for Molecular Phylogeny and Systematics, Population Genetics, Molecular Evolution, and Development

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Support is requested to purchase an ABI Prism 377 automated DNA sequencer to be used as a primary research tool for five molecular and evolutionary biologists in the Biology Department at Vanderbilt University. Our research group currently relies heavily on manual sequencing, but recent research needs and new research developments require the use of high-throughput automated sequencing. The ABI Prism 377, which is capable of sustained, accurate data throughput of up to 10 times what we can now accomplish, would represent a quantum improvement in research capability for our laboratories. The five PIs / Major Users will conduct a series of projects on the ABI377 autosequencer that explore diverse problems in organismal and molecular evolution: 1) Phylogenetic and mechanistic studies of organelle DNA evolution in photosynthetic and nonphotosynthetic plants (dePamph1lis), 2) Molecular phylogenetic studies of species interactions and coevolution (Pellmyr), 3) Evolution of genes underlying circadian clocks in plants and cyanobacteria (Johnson), 4) Organelle DNA polymorphism and the genetics of metapopulations (McCauley), and 5) Evolution of development in chordates (Swalla).