The Sensory Morphology and Anthropological Genomics Lab (SMAGL) is run by Professors Garrett and Schmitt. The combined lab space allows for molecular benchwork and visualizing 3D images of primate and fossil skeletal material. 

Professor Garrett oversees research focusing on the evolution of sensory systems in primates, particularly the sense of smell and the trade-off between smell and vision. Together with postdoctoral research associates and undergraduate research assistants, they integrate diverse fields including morphology, genomics, and paleontology to understand how humans and our closest relatives have evolved our unique sensory adaptations.

Under Professor Schmitt’s supervision, the molecular lab employs biomedical and genomics-based methodologies to better understand primate adaptations to extreme environments through multiple projects using Oxford Nanopore long-read sequencing methods. The Schmitt Lab’s core project seeks to understand genomic contributions to metabolic disorders and obesity in both wild and captive vervet monkeys (Chlorocebus spp.), while the second project focuses on better understanding high altitude adaptations and conservation genetics in Critically Endangered yellow-tailed woolly monkeys (Lagothrix flavicauda).

Location: Stone Science Building (STO) 251

 

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  • Deep freezers for sample storage.

  • Thermocyclers for PCR analysis.

  • Work stations and computers for bioinformatic analyses.

  • Dry lab and student work space.

  • Biosafety cabinet.