| Thanh-Lan Gluckman Tel: +44 (0)
1223 331 861 Position held: PhD Student (supervisor: Martin Stevens) |
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| Research Interests | ||
| My key interests are in the fields of behaviour and evolution; specifically the function and evolution of plumage patterns in birds. I am interested in how and why these traits have evolved and been maintained through time. | ||
| Current Research | ||
| In
my PhD I will conduct research into the function and evolution of
plumage patterns, incorporating how development and natural and sexual
selection, have shaped the patterns we see today. The majority of
work conducted on plumage patterns, specifically barred patterns,
has centered on camouflage. However, my previous research shows that
barred patterns have also evolved under sexual selection, and may
be used in communication. I will investigate how apparently incompatible
functions can be accommodated in a single visual trait and model how
patterns are perceived against varying backgrounds. My research proposal combines a number of inter-disciplinary research methods; I’ll be using computer modeling and image processing to explore distance-dependent ideas and how birds see patterns. I also hope to conduct field-based empirical or museum based studies to further elucidate the evolution, function and perception of patterns. Lastly, I am also interested in the development of plumage patterns, as my past research shows, and hope to continue exploring this aspect of pattern evolution. |
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| Publications | ||
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| Thanh-Lan Gluckman |
| Research |
| Publications |
Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge
CB2 3EJ, U. K.