Sally Leys

Sally Leys is a Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at the University of Alberta, specializing in evolutionary biology and comparative zoology. Her research focuses on the evolution of metazoan body plans, particularly mechanisms of coordination in sponges, combining microscopy, molecular techniques, and fieldwork at locations like the Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre. She leads the Leys Lab, which investigates sponge physiology, behavior, and genomic adaptations. Teaching includes courses such as Zoology 350 (Biology and Evolution of Invertebrates) and MASC 415 (Structure and Function of Animals), emphasizing comparative approaches and field-based learning. Her lab employs advanced tools including confocal and electron microscopy, pharmacological assays, and submersible observations to study sponge ecology and sensory systems. No formal awards or grant details are listed in the provided texts.

Research Interests:

• Evolution of animal coordination mechanisms (nervous/non-nervous systems)
• Sponge body plan organization and sensory biology
• Genomic basis of sponge behavior and adaptation

Recent Work Trends: Articles from 2022–2025 highlight genomic studies of sponge species, behavioral adaptations, and biomineralization processes. Key themes include evolutionary genomics, environmental response mechanisms, and comparative analyses of sponge physiology. Lab activities integrate field observations with molecular techniques to bridge gaps between ecological behavior and genetic underpinnings.