The comparison of genomic sequences from closely related species is well suited to estimate the factors that influence genetic variations and therefore mutation and selection. In order to identify signatures of selection, it is necessary to know how DNA sequences vary under purely neutral conditions. With my research I aim to determine various aspects of neutral DNA sequence variation as a baseline for the identification of natural selection especially in the human genome.

More specifically I am interested in the impact of CpG-methylation on genome evolution, as epigenetic marker as well as mutational hotspot. Another, interest of mine is the evolution of synonymous sites and their potential functions.