Directed evolution

Like natural selection, in which the fittest individuals pass on their genes, so scientists are using artificial selection to direct evolution. For millennia humankind has bred animals and plants to suit our needs, from corn and carnations to pigs and pit-bulls. Modern molecular biology techniques have allowed this principle to be taken forward. Now scientist can evolve individual genes in the lab to suit a particular task.

Did you know?

Evolution can be fast - especially in organisms with very short generations. Some high prolife examples include new strains of bird flu, hospital acquired infections becoming resistant to antibiotics, i.e. MRSA and insecticide resistant mosquitoes.

Breadcrumbs

About us

Evolution

Evolutionary theory rests on three central ideas:

  1. 1. Variation
  2. 2. Selection
  3. 3. Inheritance

In biology the genetic variation found in populations gives some individuals a better chance of surviving, reproducing and passing on their genes.

Other disciplines also make use of the theory of evolution. This site aims to explore how Darwin’s theories have impacted not just our understanding of the natural world but medicine, robotics, society and more.

To find out more about Charles Darwin visit Darwin200

Darwin Today

Darwin Today is a joint initiative from the UK’s seven Research Councils under the banner of Research Councils UK. The Research Councils fund diverse research that either aims to understand evolution or that makes use of the theories that Darwin put forward.

This website aims to engage people with a wide range of contemporary research and to develop a dialogue around the science and societal issues of the research.

2009 is Darwin’s 200th anniversary and 150 years since the publication of his most famous work, “On the Origin of Species”. Built on the dialogue generated on this website, the Research Councils will be running country-wide public engagement activities throughout 2009.

The Research Councils

The seven Research Councils are independent non-departmental public bodies, funded by the Science Budget through the Department of Innovation, Universities and Skills (DIUS). They are incorporated by Royal Charter and together manage a research budget of over £2.8 billion a year. www.rcuk.ac.uk