Centre for Comparative Genomics and Evolutionary Bioinformatics
| Director: |
Andrew J. Roger, PhD |
| Coordinator: |
Wanda Danilchuk |
| Phone: |
(902 494-2620 |
| Fax: |
(902) 494-1355 |
| Website: |
http://www.cgeb.dal.ca |
The Centre for Comparative Genomics and Evolutionary Bioinformatics (CGEB) at Dalhousie University encompasses an interdisciplinary group of researchers in the Faculties of Medicine, Science and Computer Science. Although microbial genome evolution and diversity is at the heart of many of the CGEB researchers’ activities, our work spans computational biology, computer science, statistical modeling and comparative genomics, with a strong focus on method and theory. The application of DNA sequencing technologies to characterize the genomes of a wide diversity of microbes has generated vast quantities of genome sequence data. Now the intellectual challenge is to develop from this enormous resource more comprehensive and theoretically robust phylogenetic, genetic and ecological models to further our understanding of the many roles of microbes in the biological world.
CGEB researchers are united by the common goal of using this vast resource of genomic information to elucidate evolutionary patterns and processes: the pathways by which microbial organisms have diversified over the last 3.5 billion years of Earth’s history and through which they continue to shape the global environment. Only through the integration of experimental genomic approaches and sophisticated bioinformatic modeling will we be able to achieve this goal.
CGEB researchers and trainees are supported by grants from the Canadian Institutes for Health Research (CIHR), Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC), and the Nova Scotia Health Research Foundation (NSHRF). The Centre itself is supported by funding from the Tula Foundation (http://www.tula.ca), the Faculties of Medicine, Science, and Computer Science, and the Provost and Vice President Academic. CGEB is also supported by a large grant from the Tula Foundation (http://www.tula.ca) that provides funds for training top-notch postdoctoral and graduate trainees in the CGEB research specialties. CGEB also has a regular seminar series that brings world renowned scientists to speak at Dalhousie University and interact with faculty members and trainees.