Justen Whittall

Justen B. Whittall is a Professor in the Department of Biology at Santa Clara University's College of Arts and Sciences. His research focuses on macroevolutionary patterns and microevolutionary processes in angiosperm diversification, utilizing phylogenetic comparative methods, experimental evolutionary ecology, and quantitative genetics to study predictable evolutionary pathways and molecular constraints.

Education:

• B.S. Biology, cum laude - Santa Clara University (1996)
• M.S. Plant Systematics - Oregon State University (1999)
• Ph.D. Plant Evolution - University of California Santa Barbara (2005)
• Postdoctoral Fellowship in Comparative Phylogenetics - University of California Davis

Research examines directional trends in flower color evolution, particularly anthocyanin pigments, through quantitative PCR and genomic approaches. Current projects investigate molecular convergence in pigment pathways while balancing ecological functions like pollinator attraction and UV protection. The lab emphasizes undergraduate research participation in evolutionary studies.

Publications demonstrate consistent focus on floral pigmentation genetics, plant polymorphisms, and evolutionary mechanisms across diverse species. Recent works explore transcontinental pigment patterns, biochemical convergence in pollination systems, and genomic characterization of insect orders.

Advises graduate students including Timothy Butler ('10), Cynthia Dick ('08), Jason Buenrostro ('09), and Julie Herman ('14). Leads an active research lab at Santa Clara University investigating molecular basis of adaptive traits through field experiments and genomic analysis.