The study of genetics underpins many aspects of research within environmental and evolutionary biology. Genetics-based research examines the roles of gene expression, genetic interactions, genetic mutation and gene inheritance, and how these processes exert a biological effect, determine adaption and evolution. Genomics tools such as next-generation sequencing can be used to quantify the presence of genes or activity of genes and gene products either for the study of individual species or for the analysis of whole communities. In particular, metagenomics analyses are allowing us to understand aspects of ecosystem function at greater detail. In addition to the study of natural systems, genetic research may use model organisms such as yeast, Drosophila and Arabidopsis in order to understand the biological function of individual genes. Relevant research projects include the bioarchaeological study of ancient life, population genetics of disease vectors, evolutionary genetics and genomics, phyologenetics, and genetic responses to biotic and abiotic stress