She is interested in the mechanisms involved in the evolution of species, aiming to better understand our origins and the future of living species. In particular, she studies the evolution of the glue produced by Drosophila flies to adhere to various substrates during metamorphosis. Together with Arnaud Martin, she created www.gephebase.org, a database of genes and mutations identified so far by the international scientific community that are responsible for natural morphological, physiological, or behavioral differences in plants and animals. This compilation has revealed that evolution often follows a limited number of genetic pathways, indicating that evolution is partially predictable.
Virginie Courtier-Orgogozo is also actively engaged in philosophy, particularly regarding the concepts of genes, development, identity, and randomness. She has written several articles on the risks associated with the new biotechnology of gene drive.
The day before, Tuesday September 24th, Virginie is invited to give a conference as part of the Séminaires HiPhis (Histoire et Philosophie des Sciences) des Universités de Montpellier (in French, open to all, see poster attached). I am very grateful to her for extending her stay to visit the IGH !
