I am generally interested in the genetic concept and mechanisms of limb development in non-model organisms. Hereby, my research focusses on morphological pecularities which go hand in hand with ecological specialisations. My study organisms include a wide range of tetrapods (salamanders, geckos, moles). Currently, the main focus lies on limb evolution in geckos which are commonly known for their climbing abilities. The museum has an in-house gecko breeding colony.
I use methods such as transcriptome analysis and in situ hybridization (on sections and whole mount) to highlight workpaths of developmentally crucial proteins and transcription factors. In a first step, I use microCT and histochemical staining, respectively, to visualize the bones and cartilage of interest.
At the museum I collaborate with working groups of Dr. Nadia Fröbisch and Prof. Dr. Johannes Müller. Internationally, I work with colleagues in Finland, Canada, The Netherlands, and Switzerland.
In addition, I am interested in tracing developmental trajectories such as e.g. ossification processes, in fossil tetrapods.
Press
Bickelmann et al. 2017. Evolution of the strong arms in moles. (29.12.2016)
Duration
Till 01.02.2019
Funding
Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft - DFG (Module Temporary Positions for Principal Investigators)