Date:
Location:
We are very pleased to host Dr. Shyamalika Gopalan, Duke University, Evolutionary Anthropology. Details on this talk are below:
Title: Diversity in Human Aging and Evolutionary History: Insights from Understudied Populations
Date: Monday, January 30, 2023
Time: 2:00-3:15 pm
Location: BioLabs 1080
Abstract:
Humans exhibit a fascinating range of diversity across multiple dimensions, including genetics, phenotype, and culture. My work seeks to gain insight into complex biological and socio-cultural phenomena by studying a broader range of this diversity than has historically been considered in the field of human genetics. In my research, I analyze multiple kinds of molecular data to delve into the underlying drivers and consequences of human variation. I will present two case studies from my prior research that illustrate how this inclusive and integrative approach has shed light on the spread of farming throughout the world, and on the molecular changes associated with aging. The results of this work highlight that increasing inclusion of underrepresented groups in genetic research is not only necessary for addressing disparities, it also facilitates novel discoveries and lines of inquiry in the field. Finally, I will discuss the future directions of my research program, which will continue to explore molecular data from diverse human populations and develop new models and methods for understanding human variation.