Evolutionary biologists recognize two main approaches to studying functions of neurobehavioral traits. One is to conduct experiments aimed at determining the benefits and costs of the behavior to the individual’s fitness. The other approach is to use comparative analysis to examine how, and in association with which other traits, the behavior evolved. This comparative approach has long been the cornerstone of evolutionary hypothesis-testing in biological sciences, for it is only through comparison that general inferences about the evolution of a trait can be drawn. Molecular advances have made it possible to generate phylogenetic trees, while new analytical methods provide the tools to examine macroevolutionary change on these trees. Thus, comparative methodology has entered a new “Golden Age” - but these methods have yet to be applied to neurobehavioral traits relevant to understanding diverse neurologic disorders.

We use both experimental and comparative techniques to investigate the functions and evolution of a number of neurobehavioral systems/traits relevant to the neurologic clinical sciences. We focus on three broad areas of research: sleep, Parkinson's Disease, and religion. By clicking on any one of the links provided on this page, you will be able to learn more about the projects we are working on at present.