For his Ph.D. work, Kraig Kraft seeks to investigate the reduction in genetic diversity of Capsicum annuum (chiles) due to the process of domestication. This is accomplished by systematically evaluating varied accessions of Capsicum using both morphological and molecular tools. By identifying and banking rare varieties and species within the genus, this work serves to locate potential traits of interest for future production needs. Advisor: Paul Gepts. Plant Sciences Department, Ecology Graduate Group, Agroecology Area of Emphasis.