John Mulley

Dr. John Mulley is a Research Lecturer in the School of Environmental and Natural Sciences at Bangor University, where he conducts research at the intersection of evolutionary biology, developmental genetics, and comparative genomics. His work spans diverse systems including desert rodents, venomous snakes, and various arthropods, utilizing cutting-edge genomic technologies such as long-read sequencing and Hi-C for chromosome-scale genome assemblies. He is affiliated with the Evo-Devo@Bangor research group and maintains an active research program with international collaborations, particularly with Prof. Wolfgang Wüster.

• University: Bangor University
• School: School of Environmental and Natural Sciences
• Position: Research Lecturer
• Email: j.mulley@bangor.ac.uk
• ORCID: 0000-0002-1537-7316
• Personal Website: www.johnmulley.com

Education:

• DPhil, The Evolution of Vertebrate ParaHox Genes, Oxford University, 2007
• MSc, Biosystematics, Imperial College London, 2003
• BSc, Genetics, University of Liverpool, 2002

Dr. Mulley's research focuses on understanding how genomic changes drive animal evolution and development. His primary interests include GC-biased mutation in desert rodents, the evolution of snake venom through gene duplication, and the influence of the uterine environment on embryonic gene expression and vertebral patterning. He employs molecular techniques such as antibody-based hormone assays, gene/protein expression studies, and rodent breeding programs to explore developmental mechanisms. His work also extends to conservation genomics, particularly in reptiles and arthropods.

The recent publication trends highlight his leadership in genome sequencing projects across diverse taxa, including reptiles, sharks, and numerous insect species, often as part of large consortia like the Darwin Tree of Life. His research demonstrates a strong emphasis on high-quality genome assembly, evolutionary developmental biology, and the genetic basis of phenotypic variation.

Dr. Mulley has been involved in several funded research projects, including 'Decoding dark DNA', 'Mapping the gerbil genome', and 'Refining husbandry and welfare of desert rodents'. He has also supported attendance at scientific conferences through UFAW grants. His collaborative network is extensive, with frequent co-authorship on studies involving genome evolution, venom biology, and conservation genetics.

He is actively involved in postgraduate supervision and welcomes PhD and MScRes students interested in Evolution and Development, Gene and Genome Duplication, and Snake Venom Evolution. His lab provides opportunities for students to engage in cutting-edge genomic research using state-of-the-art sequencing and bioinformatic tools.

Dr. Mulley is a member of the research group Evo-Devo@Bangor, which focuses on evolutionary and developmental mechanisms in diverse animal models. His projects often involve interdisciplinary collaboration with experts in ecology, conservation, and molecular biology, contributing to both fundamental biological knowledge and applied conservation efforts.