Victoria Watson-Zink

I am interested in reconstructing the mechanisms underlying major macroevolutionary life-history transitions, particularly the evolution of marine-to-terrestrial transitions. My research focuses on several iconic groups of crabs that have, to varying degrees, made the transition to land. I use classical approaches, as well as genomic and transcriptomic tools, to explore the molecular and genetic basis for their convergently evolved terrestrial adaptations, and the evolutionary contexts under which these physiological, physical, and behavioral traits have arisen.

Outside of lab, I enjoy cuddling my two cats, spending time with my husband, playing video games, crafting, self-learning Japanese, and practicing barebow archery.