Welcome to the Zhuang Lab

The Zhuang lab's research focuses on understanding the genetic basis of complex trait variation and novel trait evolution. Our research spans diverse areas, including the genetic architecture of complex diseases, the origination of genetic novelty and diversity, and the molecular mechanisms underlying adaptation. Employing molecular evolution, quantitative genetics, genomics and bioinformatics, the research group conducts studies on both model organisms and non-model organisms.

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We use Drosophila the fruit fly as an experimental model, to explore the genetic variation in complex disease traits, emphasizing gene-environment interactions. We also utilize organisms inhabiting extreme environments, such as polar fish, to investigate genetic adaptation and convergent evolution, as well as the evolutionary mechanisms of new gene origination and gene losses.