Cassandra Extavour

Cassandra Extavour is a Canadian evolutionary biologist and geneticist known for her research in developmental biology and evolutionary developmental biology (often abbreviated as evo-devo). She is a professor at Harvard University and has made significant contributions to the understanding of germ cell development and the evolution of reproductive systems.

Early Life and Education

Cassandra Extavour was born in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. She completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Toronto, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Molecular Biology and Genetics. She then pursued her Ph.D. at the University of Cambridge in the United Kingdom, where she worked under the supervision of Michael Akam.

Research and Career

After completing her Ph.D., Extavour conducted postdoctoral research at the University of Chicago with David Stern. Her research focused on the genetic and developmental mechanisms underlying the evolution of insect morphology.

In 2007, Extavour joined the faculty at Harvard University, where she is currently a Professor in the Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology and the Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology. Her laboratory investigates the genetic and developmental basis of germ cell specification and the evolution of developmental processes.

Contributions to Science

Extavour's research has provided significant insights into the evolution of germ cells and the developmental mechanisms that govern their formation. Her work has implications for understanding the evolution of reproductive systems across different species. She has also contributed to the field of evo-devo by exploring how changes in gene regulation can lead to the diversity of morphological traits observed in nature.

Awards and Honors

Cassandra Extavour has received several awards and honors for her contributions to science, including:

• The NSF CAREER Award
• The Harvard College Professorship
• The John Simon Guggenheim Memorial Foundation Fellowship

Personal Life

Extavour is also known for her advocacy for diversity and inclusion in science. She has been involved in various initiatives aimed at increasing the representation of underrepresented groups in STEM fields.

See Also

• Evolutionary developmental biology
• Germ cell
• Developmental biology
• Harvard University
• University of Toronto
• University of Cambridge