Invasion Genomics

This book explores how genomic data are revolutionising basic and applied invasion science. It shows how genomic technologies can reveal key drivers of biological invasions, such as hybridisation and rapid adaptation, and illustrates major breakthroughs achieved through the study of model systems. Multiple layers of variation are considered, including epigenetic variation and genetic variation, from chromosomal rearrangements to single nucleotide polymorphisms. Applied topics emphasise state-of-the-art techniques for rapid detection of invasive species, and analytical tools to model their future spread and adaptive potential. Reflecting the breadth of invasion genomics, the chapters span terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, as well as plant and animal systems. Contributions come from both emerging and established researchers based on all different continents except Antarctica. The book: Includes diverse contributions on a range of systems, authored by well-known experts as well as up-and-coming invasion scientists. Highlights research being performed at the forefront of invasion science. Identifies current research trends and major promising future research directions, bringing cohesion to this dynamic new subfield.This book will be essential for students and researchers working in invasion biology, and those using molecular genetic techniques to study biodiversity, ecology and the spread of alien invasive species.

Dan is an integrative molecular ecologist focusing on the study of invasive species. He relies on model systems in ecology and evolutionary biology such as wild Helianthus sunflowers and Anolis lizards, that also contain highly invasive species. He draws from the extensive ecological information and genomic tools available in these systems to understand evolutionary drivers of biological invasions. He completed his PhD in 2017 at the University of British Columbia. He then conducted postdoctoral-level studies at Harvard University, Washington University, University of Guelph, and University of British Columbia. His research has been supported by competitive fellowships and research grants from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (Canada) and the National Science Foundation (USA).

Marc's research focuses on the ecological and evolutionary consequences of human activities on species and ecosystems. He has made significant contributions in the fields of invasion genetics, biogeography and community ecology. A key example is his work improving our understanding of associations between intraspecific hybridisation of divergent genotypes and colonisation success. In recent years, Marc's research group (http://riuslab.com/people/) has extensively used high throughput sequencing (e.g. genotyping-by-sequencing, environmental DNA metabarcoding) to study range-shifting species in different parts of the world. He is currently leading tasks / workpackages of grants from the H2020 European Union, the Royal Society and the Spanish government to tackle pressing biodiversity conservation issues using high throughput sequencing.