Estimating Mutation Rates in Human Mitochondrial DNA
[October 3, 2008]
Brian Kemp, Assistant Professor, Molecular Anthropology, Washington State University.
Excerpt from Brian's home page:
My research is focused on the analysis of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) and Y-chromosomal DNA variation in extant and prehistoric populations to address questions about Native American prehistory that are not approachable from culture history alone. I am particularly interested in detecting parallels between the genetic and archaeological records, as signatures of past demographic shifts, population interactions, and population movements will have been imprinted into our genomes. Another focus of my research is the advancement of ancient DNA methods for the improved collection and authentication of results.