Comparative Invertebrate Zoology
Research topics
Our group is focused on understanding the evolutionary basis for the diversity of morphologies and life histories among invertebrates. In particular, we are studying microscopic, free-living flatworms from the group Catenulida, which we use as a model clade to investigate various questions related to evolutionary developmental biology and comparative zoology. In our research, we combine classical biological questions (for instance: how do new structures and life strategies emerge in evolution?, how do organisms adapt to the changing environmental conditions?, why do some species reproduce asexually or form clonal colonies?) with modern experimental approaches (RNA in situ hybridization, comparative transcriptomics, confocal laser microscopy, gene knock-down techniques). Moreover, we are conducting field studies to asses catenulid diversity and biogeography in Poland and to establish laboratory cultures of various species, that could be used in future scientific endeavors.
Ongoing research projects
- Polish Returns NAWA no. BPN/PPO/2023/1/00002 „Elucidating ecological and developmental causes of asexual reproduction and colony formation in flatworms” (principal investigator – Ludwik Gąsiorowski)
Topics of Master’s and Bachelor’s theses (more info)
Based on the currently ongoing projects we propose the following topics for diploma theses:
- Molecular and morphological characterization of the selected cell types in a catenulid Stenostomum brevipharyngium
- Taxonomy and biodiversity of Polish catenulids
- Comparative morphology of genera Stenostomum and Catenula
- Evolution of the selected protein families in flatworms
Moreover, we encourage students interested in the comparative zoology of invertebrates to contact Dr. Ludwik Gąsiorowski, to discuss potential alternative topics for the diploma theses.
Each project’s methodology and research directions will be individually tailored to the scientific interests and expectations of the student.
Collaborations
- Dr Christopher Laumer, Natural History Museum London
- Dr Nicolas Bekkouche, Sorbonne University (link)
- Department for Tissue Dynamics and Regeneration, Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences (link)
Selected publications
Convergent evolution of the sensory pits in and within flatworms Journal Article
In: BMC Biol, vol. 21, no. 1, pp. 266, 2023, ISSN: 1741-7007.