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John H. Willis

Professor of Biology
Biology
Box 90338, Department of Biology, Durham, NC 27708-0338
3314 French Science Center, Science Drive, Durham, NC 27708

Overview


We conduct research on broad issues in evolutionary genetics, and we are currently addressing questions relating to the evolution of adaptation, reproductive isolation, breeding systems, inbreeding depression, and floral traits in natural plant populations. Please see our lab web page for more information.

Current Appointments & Affiliations


Professor of Biology · 2009 - Present Biology, Trinity College of Arts & Sciences

In the News


Published April 14, 2023
Search Underway for Executive Vice Chancellor of Duke Kunshan University

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Recent Publications


The genetic basis of traits associated with the evolution of serpentine endemism in monkeyflowers.

Journal Article Evolution; international journal of organic evolution · January 2024 The floras on chemically and physically challenging soils, such as gypsum, shale, and serpentine, are characterized by narrowly endemic species. The evolution of edaphic endemics may be facilitated or constrained by genetic correlations among traits contri ... Full text Cite

Beyond Content, Understanding What Makes Test Questions Most Challenging

Journal Article BioScience · March 1, 2023 When students answer test questions incorrectly, we often assume they don’t understand the content; instead, they may struggle with certain cognitive skills or with how questions are asked. Our goal was to look beyond content to understand what makes asses ... Full text Cite

The genetic architecture and evolution of life-history divergence among perennials in the Mimulus guttatus species complex.

Journal Article Proceedings. Biological sciences · April 2021 Ecological divergence is a fundamental source of phenotypic diversity between closely related species, yet the genetic architecture of most ecologically relevant traits is poorly understood. Differences in elevation can impose substantial divergent selecti ... Full text Cite
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Recent Grants


R2 [Reciprocal Relationships]: Mentorships to Strengthen and Sustain STEM Teachers

Inst. Training Prgm or CMECo-Principal Investigator · Awarded by National Science Foundation · 2020 - 2025

Genetic and Genomics Training Grant

Inst. Training Prgm or CMEMentor · Awarded by National Institutes of Health · 2020 - 2025

Collaborative Research: RoL: Rapid Evolution of Reproductive Isolation via Hybrid Seed Lethality in Mimulus

ResearchPrincipal Investigator · Awarded by National Science Foundation · 2019 - 2025

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Education, Training & Certifications


The University of Chicago · 1991 Ph.D.

External Links


Willis Lab homepage