Dr. Arkhat Abzhanov

Biography

Arkhat Abzhanov is an Associate Professor in Evolutionary Developmental Genetics at Imperial College London. His research group is dedicated to exploring a variety of topics related to vertebrate craniofacial development and genetic conditions in humans. Abzhanov utilizes a range of morphometric, molecular, cellular, and genetic approaches to study the mechanisms of cranial skeletal cell differentiation and skull/face morphogenesis across amniotes. He works with both laboratory model systems, such as chicken embryos and mouse mutants, as well as evolutionary developmental studies on non-model species like Darwin's Finches and other reptiles. His research encompasses the significant conceptual questions pertaining to the roles of developmental genetic mechanisms in evolution and adaptive variation across scales of evolutionary significance. His methodological framework can be summarized in three components: quantifying morphological variation, identifying candidate genetic mechanisms, and conducting functional assays to uncover causative relationships. Abzhanov has extensive experience as a researcher at renowned institutions, including a postdoctoral fellowship at Harvard Medical School, and has contributed significantly to the understanding of evolutionary developmental biology.

Research Interests

Experience