Biodiversity discovery and taxonomy
​
In the Lyman Lab, we aim to increase our knowledge of insect biodiversity. Taxonomic classification is key for organizing our knowledge of organisms and understanding how they relate to one another and through time. We aim to advance not only species discovery, but also public engagement, outreach, and research opportunities for community scientists.

Macroevolution
​
We strive to determine the evolutionary origins and patterns of phenotypic and biological diversity among insects using genomics, phylogenetics, systematics, and comparative analyses. We combine the study of fossil evidence with molecular and morphological phylogenetics to gain insights into key evolutionary adaptations, relationships, and origins of insects.

Genomics and bioinformatics
​
Our research on macroevolution intersects with our interest in the good practices for phylogenomics and bioinformatics, assessing accuracy of statistical methods, and enhancing reproducibility of analyses. We investigate how to best use genomic sequences to infer evolutionary history and to understand how evolution has shaped biodiversity.