UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS URBANA-CHAMPAIGN
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Comparative Host-Microbial Relationships
In this multidisciplinary research, we use next generation genomic analyses to compare the presence, abundance, and function of microbes across primates and other organisms, particularly in the gastrointestinal and reproductive tracts.
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Long-Term Field Study of Wild Chimpanzees
Behavioral, morphological and endocrinological studies of wild chimpanzee sociality, social and sexual development, dispersal and reproduction.
Kanyanchu River Chimpanzee Project and Research Collaborative
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Evolutionary Endocrinology
Our objective is to conduct hormone analyses of human and non-human primates in order to address questions of sexual selection, development, reproduction, and health and provide training and research opportunities for graduate and undergraduate students.
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Primate reproduction and sexual conflict.
The strategies required for males and females to maximize their reproductive success are distinctly different across mating systems. We have developed a model (Stumpf et al., 2011) that describes the essential components (precopulatory, copulatory and postcopulatory behaviors, genetic interactions, and mechanisms) that affect reproductive fitness, and we are working to test specific aspects of this model using comparative behavioral and endocrinological data in Primates. Primates are remarkably well suited for studies of sexual selection and sexual conflict because of their considerable variation in mating systems, patterns of male- female dominance, levels of parental care, and complex social relationships.
Conservation.
Many primate species are under significant threat of extinction through human encroachment, habitat degradation and deforestation. We actively pursue questions of how these stressors affect primate health, behavior, hormones and microbial communities, as well as models for disease transmission. We are developing and applying novel methods to monitor, evaluate, and apply conservation strategies and improve conservation efforts.
Other Integrative Research:
Comparative Vaginal Microbial Diversity: Hypothesis testing, diversity, reducing risk of preterm birth.
In collaboration with microbiologists, imaging specialists and clinicians, we are commencing a longitudinal, multidisciplinary study to detect early triggers of preterm birth. Preterm birth occurs in 12% of pregnancies (up to 20% among African Americans), and costs billions in health care. Prevention of preterm birth is challenging because overt symptoms are lacking an few predictive and preventative tools exist. We are working to identify early pregnancy microbial, inflammatory, hormonal and/or structural biomarkers that predict risk of preterm birth. These results include modeling of early detection indicators for preterm birth, and, ultimately, improved intervention options.
