Bernie J. Crespi

Bernard J. Crespi is a Professor of Evolutionary Biology and holds the Canada Research Chair in Evolutionary Genetics and Psychology at Simon Fraser University's Department of Biological Sciences. His research focuses on integrating genetic, ecological, and phylogenetic approaches to study social evolution, human health and disease, maternal-fetal conflict, and speciation. Key projects include analyzing social behavior in gall-forming thrips, evolutionary genetics of autism and schizophrenia, and speciation in Timema walking sticks. Crespi leads a dynamic lab with students and collaborators worldwide, and his work bridges evolutionary theory with clinical applications in medicine and psychiatry. He is affiliated with the Faculty of Science and actively mentors students in undergraduate, graduate, and postdoctoral training programs.

• Education: AB from University of Chicago, PhD from University of Michigan
• Awards: Canada Research Chair in Evolutionary Genetics and Psychology
• Research Groups: Evolutionary Medicine, Social Brain Disorders, Speciation Genomics
• Lab Members: Natalie Dinsdale (PhD), Tanya Procyshyn (MSc), Iiro Salminen (incoming PhD)

His research emphasizes genomic imprinting, diametric disorders (e.g., autism vs. schizophrenia), and evolutionary conflicts underlying human health. His lab uses fieldwork, genomic analyses, and interdisciplinary collaborations to address fundamental questions in evolutionary biology and medicine.