Dr. Esteban J. Parra is a molecular anthropologist interested in the application of genetic markers to answer questions related to the evolution of human populations and to identify the genetic risk factors involved in complex diseases (e.g. type 2 diabetes). A major focus of his research has been devoted to the identification of the genetic mechanisms involved in the adaptation of human populations to different environments. Work in this area includes research on the evolution and genetic basis of skin pigmentation, a trait showing extensive geographic variation in human populations, and studies exploring adaptation to altitude in the Andean region. Dr. Parra has also investigated the seasonal variation of vitamin D levels in individuals of diverse ancestry living in the Greater Toronto Area. Finally, another component of his research has been the study of admixture, the process of mixing of human populations. He has investigated extensively the admixture process that took place in the Americas since the 15th century.