Research
Ongoing research
Population genomics and environmental adaptation
We study genetic connectivity and environmental adaptation. Currently we focus on reef predators and iconic sport fishes: the Giant Trevally (Caranx ignobilis; pictured) and Bluefin Trevally (Caranx melampygus). MS student, Sydney Almgren, is studying the population genomics of Pacific Herring (Clupea pallasii) in the Eastern Bering Sea.
Phylogenomics and biogeography
New sequencing techniques enable powerful advances in phylogenomics. Using ultraconserved elements (UCEs), we are reconstructing the phylogeny of Carangoidea and exploring patterns of contemporary and historical biogeography.
Sustainable Seafood
As part of a Seychelloise-led team, we are investigating market-based tools to improve the sustainability of artisanal fisheries in the Republic of Seychelles. This project is run by former Glass Lab student, Sheena Talma, and is funded by the Seychelles Conservation and Climate Adaptation Trust (SEYCCAT).
New Projects
The evolution of Ice-binding proteins in intertidal invertebrates
With support from the National Science Foundation, we are investigating the evolution of ice-binding proteins in intertidal invertebrates in the North Pacific.
Image from World Register of Marine Species
Nearshore community ecology in the Gulf of Alaska using eDNA
With support from NSF EPSCoR and the Bureau of Ocean and Energy Management via the Alaska Coastal Marine Institute, MS student Maris Goodwin is using environmental DNA to study the impacts of climate change on Alaskan fish and invertebrate communities. Check out the NSF EPSCoR coastal margins team website here.
PC: Coastal Margins Team
The genomics of migration and stress tolerance
We are starting a new project combining acoustic telemetry, transcriptomics and stable isotope ecology to study ecological and genomic signals underlying migratory responses in Giant Trevally (Caranx ignobilis) in an estuary in South Africa.
PC: Mtentu Lodge
eDNA Technology Development
We are developing and testing novel passive eDNA technology produced using 3D-printing. Our work is in collaboration with the UAF Mechanical Engineering Department and is supported by the Bureau of Ocean and Energy Management, NSF I-CORPS, UAF Center ICE and the Office of Naval Research.
Stress Response in Pacific Oysters
With funding from Alaska Sea Grant and in partnership with oyster farmers, we are investigating the evolutionary underpinnings of stress response in farmed Pacific Oysters in Alaska.
Image from fisheries.noaa.gov