Sample interview questions: Can you describe any experience you have with using molecular clocks in evolutionary studies?
Sample answer:
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Molecular clock studies: I have utilized DNA and protein sequence data to calibrate and apply various evolutionary rate models to estimate the divergence times of different lineages. This has been instrumental in resolving phylogenetic relationships and understanding the evolutionary history of various organisms, including flowering plants, mammals, and viruses.
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Fossil-calibrated phylogenies: I have combined fossil data with DNA sequence data to create time-calibrated phylogenies. This has allowed me to estimate the ages of nodes in the tree of life and to study the tempo and mode of evolutionary change over geological time.
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Phylogeography: I have used DNA sequence data to study the geographic distribution of closely related species and subspecies. This has helped me to understand how geographic factors have influence patterns of evolution and speciation.
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Population genetics: I have used DNA sequence data to study the population genetics of various organisms. This has allowed me to estimate levels of gene flow, identify genetically distinct groups, and study the processes that drive evolutionary change within species.
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Species delimitation: I have used DNA sequence data t… Read full answer