Juan Carlos Garcia Ramirez
Doctor of Philosophy, (Evolutionary Ecology)
Study Completed: 2014
College of Sciences
Citation
Thesis Title
The influence of space and time on the genetic architecture of rail species (Aves:Rallidae)
Read article at Massey Research Online: 
Mr Garcia Ramirez sought to understand the underlying processes that change biological diversity. Building on the fundamental evolutionary and population genetic theory of Charles Darwin and Gregor Mendel, Mr Garcia used new ideas, concepts, and molecular tools to unravel the evolution of one of the most remarkable groups of vertebrates; namely, rail birds (Aves: Rallidae). His research has transformed our knowledge of the systematic relationships and dispersal routes, as well as the tempo and mode of evolution of these beautiful and ecologically diverse birds. He has expanded our knowledge of the causes, factors, and processes operating in the generation, variation, and distribution of biological diversity; bringing together macro- and micro-evolutionary analyses.
Supervisors
Professor Isabel Castro
Professor Steven Trewick