Discover the depths of marine science research with Delve Deeper, a thought-provoking 2024 webinar series curated by MASTS. Immerse yourself in the latest marine research, engage with interdisciplinary dialogues, and become an integral part of our growing community. With themes spanning Environmental Impact, Resource Exploration, Technological Advancements, and Coastal Sustainability, each episode promises an exciting dive into the ever-evolving world of marine science.
By Dr Carmen McDougall
This seminar explores the diverse application of molecular techniques for understanding molluscan biology and improving shellfish aquaculture. It will span research on pearl formation and biomineralisation processes, and will demonstrate the importance of molecular tools for identification of oyster species, particularly in the tropics. Finally, it will demonstrate how molecular tools can contribute to shellfish reef restoration programmes.
Dr. Carmel McDougall’s research focuses on comparative and functional genomics to drive sustainable aquaculture and marine conservation efforts. With a keen interest in evolutionary biology, her group delves into understanding the genetic basis of biomineralization in mollusks and annelids, evolution of immune systems, and gene co-option in invertebrate evolution. Additionally, her work explores molecular aquaculture, aiming to enhance pearl quality, improve hatchery production of rock oysters, and develop tools for managing gonad maturation in tropical abalone. Dr. McDougall’s group also contributes to molecular ecology by leveraging genetic identification techniques to assess biodiversity, understand shellfish reef restoration success, and detect exotic bivalve species using innovative eDNA methods. Find out more about Dr Carmen McDougall’s work here.
Check out this link to see all the up and coming webinars in the MASTS 2024 Delve Deeper series.