Megan Barnes
PhD: The ecological and evolutionary significance of functional variation in mitochondria in a wild animal
Location: University of Nottingham.
Mitochondria are responsible for energy production. They carry their own DNA, separate to the nucleus. Although variation in this mitochondrial DNA has long been assumed neutral, recent findings suggest that it may be important for adaptation to environmental change. In my project I am assessing the functional consequences of this mitochondrial DNA variation in the three-spined stickleback on North Uist, and it’s ecological and evolutionary significance.
I completed my undergraduate degree at the University of York, graduating with a BSc in Biology. I went on to study at the University of Leicester, completing a MSc in Cancer Cell and Molecular Biology. During my PhD I am able to combine aspects learnt in projects to date with my interest in the environment and evolutionary ecology.