The Rana Lab
Ecology and Evolutionary Biology
The Rana Lab investigates the genomic and ecological processes driving plant speciation, adaptation, and biodiversity change. Our work spans from genomic invasion risk modeling of Saccharum spontaneum to mountain biodiversity and macroevolution in the Appalachians and Rockies, and the application of environmental DNA (eDNA) to monitor rare and endangered species. By integrating high-throughput sequencing, ecological niche modeling, and field research, we aim to uncover the genetic basis of adaptation, forecast species’ responses to climate change, and provide science-based strategies for conservation. A central priority is mentoring undergraduate students, engaging them in hands-on projects that build skills in field ecology, genomics, and scientific communication.
Invasion Genomics and Niche Modeling of Wild Sugarcane
We investigates the invasion biology of Saccharum spontaneum (wild sugarcane) as part of a USDA-funded collaborative project led by Dr. Travis Marsico (PI, Arkansas State University) in partnership with the USDA, the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute (STRI), and Avalo Inc.. We integrate genotype–environment association (GEA) analyses with ecological niche modeling to link adaptive genomic variation with present and future habitat suitability. The genomic analyses identify alleles and loci associated with key environmental gradients, while the niche modeling uses climate, soil, and disturbance variables to project invasion risk under multiple climate change scenarios. A key focus is on source–sink dynamics between Florida and Panama, assessing whether Florida’s invasive populations derive from Panamanian sources, represent multiple introductions, or have mixed origins. This work also includes the development of PloidyFlex, an R package for estimating ploidy levels from 2x to 16x in polyploid species, integrating sequencing-based inference with flow cytometry and cytological validation.
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We explores the molecular basis of cryptic morph differentiation in Stellera chamaejasme using population-level RNA-seq. Across four morphotypes (PP, YY, YW, RW), we assembled pooled transcriptomes and identified hundreds of thousands of differentially expressed genes per morph. Functional annotation through Gene Ontology (GO) and KEGG revealed enrichment in pathways tied to physiological, metabolic, and molecular processes, with notable representation of plasma membrane-associated genes. These findings indicate that distinct sets of up- and downregulated genes underpin morph differentiation, providing new insights into the genomic architecture of cryptic speciation in alpine plants.
Population Transcriptomics of Cryptic Morphs in Stellera chamaejasme
Research Plans
The Rana Lab will advance the genomic and ecological understanding of plant speciation, adaptation, and biodiversity conservation, focusing on interconnected themes. By combining high-throughput sequencing, phylogenetics, ecological modeling, and field research, we aim to generate new insights into the processes shaping plant diversity and to inform conservation strategies at multiple scales.
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1. Genomic seed zones for climate-smart restoration in Ohio
This project uses cutting-edge ecological genomics to design climate-smart seed transfer zones for keystone species in Ohio’s prairies, wetlands, and riparian forests. We are focusing on:
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Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) – a dominant tallgrass prairie species.
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Big bluestem (Andropogon gerardii) / prairie cordgrass (Spartina pectinata) – testing the role of polyploidy and hydrology in adaptation.
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Ash trees (Fraxinus spp.) – assessing genomic resilience in lingering ash survivors under Emerald Ash Borer invasion.
By combining genomic analyses, climate and hydrology modeling, greenhouse stress assays, and field pilot trials, we will:
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Map adaptive genomic variation and forecast vulnerability under near-term (2041–2060) climate scenarios.
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Develop the first genomic seed zones for Ohio and publish an Ohio Seed Sourcing Guide for land managers.
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Provide evidence-based rules for assisted gene flow to improve restoration success.
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2. Evolutionary Genomics of Plant Speciation and Adaptation
​This project investigates how genetic variation and environmental pressures interact to drive speciation, ecological niche differentiation, and adaptive responses to climate change. Using genome-wide sequencing and ecological niche modeling, we will explore the genetic architecture underlying adaptation in plant species across diverse habitats, with an emphasis on mountainous and temperate ecosystems in the United States. This research will assess how plants respond to environmental stressors, habitat shifts, and climate change, and will identify candidate genes associated with resilience and vulnerability.
3. Plant Diversity and Macroevolution in Mountain Systems
​The Appalachian and Rocky Mountains offer unparalleled opportunities to study plant macroevolution and diversification. The project integrates genomic, phylogenetic, and biogeographic analyses to reconstruct the evolutionary history of plant lineages in these regions, identifying how historical environmental changes, such as glaciations and shifts in climatic regimes, have shaped present-day diversity patterns. Special focus will be placed on endemic and rare species to evaluate their genetic diversity, range dynamics, and conservation needs in the face of ongoing environmental change.
4. Environmental DNA (eDNA) and Evolutionary Dynamics
The project uses environmental DNA (eDNA) as a cutting-edge tool to monitor biodiversity, detect rare and endangered species, and assess shifts in plant community composition over time. This approach will allow for rapid, non-invasive biodiversity assessments across multiple ecosystems and will be integrated with genomic and ecological data to explore evolutionary dynamics and community responses to environmental change. eDNA-based monitoring will also support local and regional conservation initiatives, providing real-time data for decision-making.
A central goal of my research program is the active engagement of undergraduate students in authentic research experiences. The Rana Lab will mentor students in field ecology, molecular biology, and computational data analysis, guiding them through independent projects from inception to dissemination. Students will have opportunities to present their work at scientific conferences and contribute to publications, preparing them for advanced studies and careers in ecology, evolution, and conservation biology.