Dr. Voolstra’s research interests are in Evolutionary Genomics and Systems Biology of coral reefs. Coral reefs represent one of the most diverse ecosystems in the world. They are, however, extremely fragile and endangered due to human imposed exploitation, pollution, and global warming. An Evolutionary Genomics and Systems Biology approach can add to our understanding of reef ecology and conservation efforts. Dr Voolstra intends to focus on the following research topics: The role of adaptive evolution and coral-specific genes in molecular mechanisms of bleaching and stress; the molecular machinery of mutualism between corals and algae; the role of prokaryotes in these processes. Furthermore, Dr. Voolstra is interested in Biomineralization, Cancer, Ageing, Population Genetics/Genomics, and Genome-wide association studies (GWAS). Dr. Voolstra is an evolutionary biologist by heart that is interested in the big picture by applying whatever techniques are available or by the developmentof new methods in order to advance research. 

Michael L. Berumen: Associate Professor, Marine Science. Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering Division. Center membership: Red Sea Research Center. Research Interests: Larval connectivity and dispersal of reef fishes; movement ecology of reef organisms; biodiversity and evolutionary biology of Red Sea fauna.