Many of the research questions of the Edwards group, both ecologically-oriented and molecular work, are motivated by natural history observations. Genomics and studies of genome evolution provide a remarkable window into the molecular basis of interesting phenotypic variation.The lab has had a long-term interest in seabirds of the order Procellariformes, which includes the albatrosses and petrels. These birds, with their long-distance foraging journey and remarkable life histories, are not only inspiring but also offer a treasure-trove of interesting molecular ecology facts to discover. Recent work on procellariformes includes the organic mercury study, as well as population genetic studies of black-footed albatrosses, and finally ongoing work with Gaby Nevitt (UC Davis) on chemical ecology and mate recognition in Leach's Storm Petrels. Further, the group has developed mathematical ways to explore evolutionary processes, including several methods for estimating phylogenetic trees using the so-called multispecies coalescent model. (modified from https://edwards.oeb.harvard.edu/research)