NSF Postdoctoral Fellowship in Biology FY 2012

数学模型用于加强分类匹配数学模型被用来洞察复杂的进化过程并量化进化力量。这项研究提出了两个项目，这两个项目都使用了这两种方式的数学模型来调查自然选择在物种形成中的作用。具体地说，这项工作研究了强化过程，其中选择有利于生殖隔离的进化，从而降低了昂贵的杂交成本。第一个提议的项目将建立分析模型，以确定在什么条件下，针对杂交的选择可以导致加强分类交配。第二个拟议的项目将结合数学模型和经验观察来估计选择强度、杂交率和影响加强的德克萨斯州野花Phlox drummondii的迁徙。将根据自然种群的地理和遗传学建立一个空间显式的模拟模型。这个模型将与经验数据相吻合，以给出与加固有关的进化参数的第一次估计。拟议的项目将在不同的数学、模拟和统计方法方面对博士后研究员进行培训，例如学习创建和求解动态系统、近似方法和似然方法。这项奖学金工作包括在当地一所奥斯汀中学创建一个科学、技术、工程和数学(STEM)俱乐部，该俱乐部服务于不同的学生群体。STEM俱乐部的主要目标将是指导学生设计和执行他们自己的研究项目。

Mathematical models for reinforcement of assortative matingMathematical models are used to gain insight into complex evolutionary processes and to quantify evolutionary forces. This study proposes two projects that use mathematical models in both of these ways to investigate the role of natural selection in speciation. Specifically, this work investigates the process of reinforcement in which selection favors the evolution of reproductive isolation that decreases costly hybridization. The first proposed project would create analytic models to determine the conditions under which selection against hybrids can cause reinforcement of assortative mating. The second proposed project will combine mathematical models with empirical observations to estimate the strength of selection, the rate of hybridization, and migration affecting reinforcement in the Texas wildflower, Phlox drummondii. A spatially-explicit simulation model will be developed based on the geography and genetics of natural P. drummondii populations. This model will be fit to empirical data to give the first estimates of evolutionary parameters involved in reinforcement. The proposed projects will train the postdoctoral fellow in diverse mathematical, simulation, and statistical methods such as learning to create and solve dynamic systems, methods of approximation, and likelihood methods. This fellowship work includes creating a Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) club at a local Austin middle school, which serves a diverse student body. The major goal of the STEM club will be to guide students through the design and execution of their own research projects.