معرفی
Dr. Sarah P. Otto is a Professor at the Department of Zoology, University of British Columbia, holding the Killam University Chair and Canada Research Chair. Her research integrates mathematical theory, statistical inference, and experimental evolution to explore fundamental questions in evolutionary biology.
- Affiliation: Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, University of British Columbia
- Contact: otto@zoology.ubc.ca
Research interests focus on evolutionary transitions in reproduction modes, genome structure, and mating systems. She uses mathematical models to assess evolutionary plausibility and yeast experimental evolution to validate hypotheses, particularly on ploidy level dynamics and adaptation constraints in changing environments.
Scientific contributions include developing stochastic models for sexual reproduction advantages and likelihood-based tools for inferring trait-dependent speciation/extinction rates. Her 2017 co-authored paper on the evolutionary hydra effect examines adaptation rates in yeast under environmental stress.
- Awards:
- Killam University Professor
- Canada Research Chair
- Teaching:
- Co-author of A Biologist's Guide to Mathematical Modeling in Ecology and Evolution
- Courses: Biology 301 (Biomathematics), Biology 336 (Fundamentals of Evolution)
Advising spans 30+ graduate students and postdocs, with projects ranging from microbial coevolution to macroevolutionary patterns. Her lab (Biodiversity Research Center) emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches and experimental validation of theoretical models.
