Rate Professor Simon Ho

Professional Summary: Professor Simon Ho

Professor Simon Ho is a distinguished academic at the University of Sydney, Australia, recognized for his expertise in evolutionary biology and molecular phylogenetics. With a career spanning over two decades, he has made significant contributions to the understanding of evolutionary processes through the use of molecular data, particularly in the study of phylogenomics and divergence time estimation.

Academic Background and Degrees

Professor Ho holds the following academic qualifications:

• Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Biology, University of Sydney
• PhD in Evolutionary Biology, University of Sydney

Research Specializations and Academic Interests

Simon Ho's research focuses on the following areas:

• Molecular phylogenetics and phylogenomics
• Divergence time estimation and molecular clocks
• Evolutionary biology and bioinformatics
• Development of computational methods for evolutionary analysis

Career History and Appointments

Professor Ho has held several key academic positions:

• Professor of Molecular Evolution, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Sydney (current)
• Associate Professor, University of Sydney (prior to current role)
• Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Australian National University

Major Awards, Fellowships, and Honors

Simon Ho has been recognized for his contributions to evolutionary biology with the following accolades:

• Edgeworth David Medal, Royal Society of New South Wales (2011)
• Australian Research Council (ARC) Future Fellowship (2013-2017)

Key Publications

Professor Ho has authored numerous influential papers and books in the field of evolutionary biology. A selection of his key works includes:

• Ho, S.Y.W. (Editor). The Molecular Evolutionary Clock: Theory and Practice (2021)
• Ho, S.Y.W., & Duchêne, S. 'Molecular-clock methods for estimating evolutionary rates and timescales.' Molecular Ecology (2014)
• Ho, S.Y.W., et al. 'Time-dependent rates of molecular evolution.' Molecular Ecology (2011)
• Ho, S.Y.W., & Larson, G. 'Molecular clocks: when times and rates differ.' Trends in Genetics (2006)

Influence and Impact on Academic Field

Professor Ho is widely regarded as a leading figure in molecular phylogenetics, particularly for his work on molecular clocks and divergence time estimation. His research has advanced the field by developing and refining computational tools that allow for more accurate dating of evolutionary events. His publications are frequently cited, and his methodologies have been adopted by researchers worldwide in studies of evolutionary biology and genomics.

Public Lectures, Committees, and Editorial Contributions

Simon Ho has contributed to the academic community through various roles and engagements:

• Editor for several peer-reviewed journals, including Molecular Biology and Evolution and Systematic Biology
• Regular speaker at international conferences on evolutionary biology and phylogenetics
• Member of professional societies such as the Society of Systematic Biologists