Genomics and Morphometry of Mammals Group

We conduct interdisciplinary research that integrates modern methods of genomics, evolutionary biology, and quantitative morphometrics to understand the processes shaping variability, adaptation, and condition in wild mammal populations. Our current work focuses on the European bison, a species with an extremely narrow gene pool, with particular emphasis on understanding the relationship between—and potential impact of—its exceptionally high inbreeding levels on cranial traits.
We perform genome analyses using the bovine BovineHD BeadChip array (>777,000 SNPs). Our research is based on both contemporary and historical skeletal material, relying on 3D skull models generated with a 3D scanner. We also employ computed tomography, which enables the examination of internal cranial structures, including the size and shape of the brain.