With an organismal focus on the amphibians and reptiles of the Caribbean islands, our lab combines traditional taxonomy with molecular biology to determine species relationships, classify new species, and elucidate evolutionary histories. We utilize molecular biology techniques including PCR and Sanger sequencing to obtain DNA sequences from mitochondrial and nuclear genes with the goal of assembling phylogenies as needed for particular questions. The lab is equipped with four wet lab benches set aside for molecular work including DNA extraction, amplification, and visualization. An additional four benches are utilized for morphological and taxonomic work, with five high powered stereo microscopes for detailed analysis of morphological characteristics. The lab further houses an extensive collection of reptiles and amphibians, both whole specimens, and tissue samples important for long term DNA preservation.