Jason Grant

Evolutionary genetics

Research interests

My research focuses on the taxonomy, systematics, speciation, biogeography and natural history of North and South American plants using macro and micro- morphology, and molecular systematics. Currently researched groups include the flowering plant families Gentianaceae (gentians; Macrocarpaea, Symbolanthus), Bromeliaceae (Alcantarea, Vriesea, and Werauhia), and the fern family Ophioglossaceae (Botrychium). Geographical regions where I largely conduct my research include the Andes in South America (Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia), and Arctic and boreal regions of North America and Asia.

Neotropical studies

Evaluation of historical patterns of speciation of plants in montane South America. Speciation and biogeography are especially important for studying genetic variation by using model organisms to interpret patterns that can be used in the assessment of general biodiversity, and threats that may lead to recommendations for conservation.

Arctic studies

Evaluation of dispersals of plants from Asia to North America. The genus Parrya (Brassicaceae) is primarily distributed in the Himalaya and other mountainous regions of Asia. My studies concentrate on the American radiation. The fern genus Botrychium (Ophioglossaceae) is widely distributed in North America, but is especially speciose in Alaska and the Pacific Northwest. In 2002 I described a new species from Alaska, Botrychium alaskense.

European studies

Floristics of the Jura Mountains of Switzerland, focussing on the Canton of Neuchâtel where we are currently preparing a new field guide.

Botanical history

History of botanical research in the Neuchâtel region or botanists from Neuchâtel, notably Jean-Jacques Rousseau, Jean-Antoine d'Ivernois, Abraham Gagnebin, and Jean-Frédéric Chaillet.

Teaching activities

• 1ère: Histologie végétale
• 1ère: TP histologie et botanique
• 2ème: Diversité et évolution des plantes
• 2ème: Excursions de botanique
• 3ème: Floristique avancée
• MSc: Plant systematics and evolution

Publications

Complete list