Professor Dr. Steve Perlman

Biography

Steve Perlman is a Professor in the Department of Biology at the University of Victoria. His research focuses on evolution, entomology, symbiosis, and host-parasite interactions. Perlman's work delves deeply into the ecological associations between diverse organisms, including insects that infect parasites and beneficial symbionts. A significant area of his research involves bacterial symbionts passed from mothers to their offspring, which play a critical role in the evolution and ecology of their hosts. These inherited bacteria are not only ubiquitous but also fundamental to understanding how hosts are protected from natural enemies. In addition to his work on symbionts, Perlman is interested in selfish genetic elements and the unique genetic systems that contribute to the life histories of insects. His academic interests encompass a wide range of topics within the realm of symbiosis and its implications for evolutionary biology.

Research Interests

Courses