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Hybridization, or the exchange of genes between different species, is much more common than previously recognized. In the past decade, the genome sequencing revolution has allowed us to peer into the evolutionary histories of myriad species. This has led to the realization that many if not most plant and animal species have hybridized with their close relatives. Research in Molly Schumer’s lab seeks to understand the molecular and evolutionary consequences of this genetic exchange. The lab uses a unique model system — swordtail fish — to bridge the gap between studies of molecular mechanism and studies of evolution in natural populations.