We research mobile genetic elements, such as transposons and endogenous viruses, with a primary focus on vertebrate genomes, including the human genome. The overarching goal is to characterize the impact of these elements on the evolution and physiology of their host species – including disease states. We also have a long-standing interest in deciphering the forces and mechanisms underlying the propagation of mobile elements within and between species, and the long-term consequences of these activities in shaping genome architecture and complexity.