Witold Wachowiak

Research focus:
My research work focuses on the analysis of demographic end evolutionary processes shaping the genetic variability of natural plant populations. I am particularly interested in studying the genetic grounds for adaptive variability, biogeography, hybridisation and speciation of forest tree species. The work is based on the use of molecular methods in population genetics and genomics and in developing new genome resources for the taxonomic groups being analysed. Their main objective is to better understand the interdependence between the level and distribution of genetic variability in natural populations, and the adaptation of species and ecosystems to local environmental conditions.
The knowledge is necessary to develop new programmes for the breeding and protection of key plant species, including forest trees in response to their growing demand and environmental changes.

Keywords:
adaptive variability, population structure, hybridisation, speciation, genetic markets, molecular taxonomy