Scott Hodges

Scott Hodges is a Professor in the Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Marine Biology at the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB). His research focuses on understanding the genetic basis of adaptation and speciation, particularly in the floral diversity of Aquilegia (columbine). He has held academic positions at Barnard College and the University of Georgia before joining UCSB's faculty in EEMB. Hodges collaborates internationally on genomic projects, including the California Conservation Genomics Project and the development of Aquilegia's reference genome.

He earned his undergraduate degrees in Botany and Biology, followed by a Ph.D. in Botany from UC Berkeley under Herbert Baker. Postdoctoral work at the University of Georgia with Mike Arnold initiated his work on Aquilegia. His lab integrates genetics, genomics, and ecology to study evolutionary processes such as floral trait evolution, pollinator-driven diversification, and macroevolutionary patterns.

Key research themes include the genetic architecture of floral traits, the role of nectar spurs in pollinator adaptation, and genomic tools for conservation. His work bridges developmental genetics and ecology, with recent emphasis on landscape genomics for biodiversity conservation. Hodges has led major projects like the Aquilegia genome sequencing initiative and collaborates with institutions globally, including Harvard University and the Gregor Mendel Institute.

His publications highlight genomic studies of floral innovation, evolutionary radiations in Aquilegia, and applications of genomics to conservation challenges. While no specific awards are listed, his contributions to evolutionary genomics and plant systematics are widely recognized in the field. Grants include NSF funding for genomic tools and collaborative projects on floral evolution.