In the Reed Lab we seek to understand the genesis of biodiversity through our work on butterfly color patterns. Inspired by nature’s own palette of variation, our organism-centered research applies the latest tools in developmental genetics and molecular biology to understand how color patterns originated and how they diversify in nature. We are interested in topics ranging from the genetic basis of mimicry, to how butterflies change their color patterns according to seasons, to the origin of color itself.

On this site you can find a brief summary of current research interests in the lab, as well as links to our publications.

If you are potentially interested in joining the lab, or have questions about data sharing or reagents, please contact me directly: robertreed@cornell.edu