The Hines Lab at Penn State studies the evolution, diversity, and conservation of bees and wasps

Our research integrates across biology, from molecular (genomics, development, chemistry) to ecological, to address multiple facets of biodiversity. We are:

  • Discovering evolutionary and genetic processes generating morphological diversity including the mimetic color diversity in bees, and the elaborate gall morphologies induced by gall wasps (Cynipidae) using genomic and transcriptomic tools.
  • Defining phylogenetic relationships, understanding speciation processes and describing new species, and examining trait evolution in bees and wasps.
  • Seeking solutions to bee declines through studying the landscape factors that most influence bumble bee health, applying techniques from the lab to the field and integrating transcriptomics tools.
  • Studying the role of diet on bee health towards optimized forage.
  • Exploring plant-pollinator coevolution and foraging, such as addressing how floral secondary compounds drive visitation bias in bees.