Mariia Sachkova

I study molecular evolution of two fascinating groups of marine invertebrates: cnidarians (e.g. sea anemones and corals) and comb jellies (also known as ctenophores). I am interested in cnidarian venom, its adaptations to environmental stress (e.g. heat) and the advantages that it provides sea anemones and corals. I am also trying to understand the origin of nervous system in comb jellies and animals in general. To address these evolutionary questions, I use molecular biology and biochemistry techniques.