Dean Castillo

Dean Castillo is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at Miami University, affiliated with the Cell, Molecular, and Structural Biology Graduate Program and the Center for Neuroscience and Behavior. His research focuses on evolutionary biology, particularly how behavior drives speciation through sexual selection processes in Drosophila populations.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior, Indiana University
• B.A. in Biology, Cornell University

Research Interests: Castillo investigates the genetic and neurobiological mechanisms underlying mating behaviors and reproductive isolation in fruit flies. His work integrates behavioral experiments with molecular genetics, population genomics, and neurobiology to explore how these traits contribute to biodiversity. Key themes include the genetic basis of mate preferences, plasticity in courtship behaviors, and the role of transposable elements in speciation.

Publications: His recent work emphasizes population structure, hybrid incompatibility, and neurogenetic influences on mating. Articles highlight advancements in understanding how behavioral and genetic traits shape evolutionary trajectories.

Awards: No scientific awards were explicitly mentioned in the provided materials.

Advising & Grants: No student advising or grant details were listed, though he teaches courses such as BIO115 (Biological Concepts) and BIO400W (Capstone: Problem-Solving and Research).

Labs: The Castillo Lab at Miami University serves as his primary research hub, focusing on integrative approaches to evolutionary biology.