# Advances and challenges in understanding evolution through genome comparison: meeting report of the European Molecular Biology Organization (EMBO) lecture course “Evolutionary and Comparative Genomics”

## TL;DR

This paper discusses recent developments and challenges in evolutionary genomics, focusing on topics like microbial pangenomes and transposon dynamics.

## Contribution

The paper highlights new computational and molecular approaches shaping the future of evolutionary and comparative genomics.

## Key findings

- Recent advances include microbial pangenomes and protein evolution.
- New technologies are reshaping the field of evolutionary genomics.
- Hybrid speciation and transposon dynamics are key areas of focus.

## Abstract

This perspective outlines emerging trends, key challenges, and future opportunities in evolutionary and comparative genomics. Our starting point are the topics presented at the 2024 EMBO Early Career Lecture Course “Evolutionary and Comparative Genomics”, which highlighted recent conceptual and methodological advances in areas ranging from microbial pangenomes, protein evolution, hybrid speciation, novel gene origination and transposon dynamics. Here, we emphasize the role of computational and molecular approaches, providing a forward-looking view on where the field is headed and how it is being reshaped by new technologies and approaches.