One of Dr. Kolmann's primary research goals is to understand how novel traits alter phenotypic diversification and how multiple traits (combining anatomical and physiological systems) co-evolve to respond to new challenges, like new diets or shifting habitat regimes.

A long-term focus of the lab: morphology, ecology, and systematics of serrasalmids and other characiform fishes. We use fieldwork in South America to document diversity, collect specimens and DNA, and investigate functional adaptations in this ecologically important group.

We conduct targeted surveys in Guyana and other locations in South America to locate historically described species, collect morphological and genetic data, clarify species limits, and shed light on the biogeographical history of the Guiana Shield, including building local collaborations and capacity building.

We study how cranial and jaw structures produce feeding performance across fishes. Combining mechanical modeling, high-resolution CT, and feeding trials, we test how morphological change alters prey capture and diet. 

The lab curates a large collection of microCT and contrast-enhanced CT scans for comparative anatomy and teaching. We use these scans for landmarking, shape analysis, and downloadable resources for collaborators and students.