Hull Lab University of California, Davis

Brian Hoover

Ph.D. Ecology

B.S. Zoology, Colorado State University

M.S. Marine Ecology, Moss Landing Marine Labs

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Website: http://contrafreeloading.wixsite.com/hooverecology/home

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Research Interests:

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I’m interested in patterns of local adaptation and individual quality in seabird populations. Specifically, I use molecular techniques to investigate genetic diversity at the Major Histocompatibility Complex Class II (MHC Class IIB) in a population of Leach’s Storm-petrels (Oceanodroma leucorhoa). MHC II markers are highly variable immune-genetic proteins associated with immune response to extracellular pathogens, as well as kin recognition, individual odor cues and mate choice behavior. For my dissertation research, I am exploring whether variability in MHC genes can be used to predict mate choice in a natural population, and whether specific MHC genotypes can be associated with individual fitness measures in a population. I also retain broad interests in the physiology and sensory biology of seabirds, particularly in the context of foraging and at-sea seabird assemblages.