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The Conservation Genetics Lab at ATREE integrates molecular ecology, genomics, environmental DNA (eDNA), and spatial modelling to address biodiversity loss across forests, wetlands, and agroecosystems. We combine laboratory research, field ecology, and analytical modelling to generate evidence for species recovery, restoration, regenerative agriculture, and conservation policy.
What we do
Maintaining a species’ ability to persist in the ever-changing environment ultimately means preserving genetic variation. The major focus of the Conservation Genetics lab at ATREE has been on applying molecular tools and analytical methods of population genetics for a variety of species of conservation concern.
A core area of research has been to ensure sustainable use, development and conservation while retaining forest genetic diversity. The lab uses tools and outputs to manage forest genetic resources for landscape restoration and livelihoods.
Several researchers have investigated how genetics can be applied to help conserve rare, endangered, threatened and economically important species.
Discovering new species, identifying adulteration in medicinal plants, understanding the biogeography of plants and animals and tracking invasive species are central to the research carried out.
Lab Infrastructure
The Conservation Genetics Lab is equipped with a range of instruments that support molecular and microbiological research workflows. Key facilities include PCR machines, gel documentation systems, bead beaters, DNA quantification systems, and centrifuges, along with deep freezers (−20°C and −70°C), refrigerators, and an ice flaker for sample preservation. The laboratory also contains autoclaves, hot air ovens, a BOD incubator, and a laminar air flow unit to maintain sterile working conditions. Additional equipment includes power packs with gel tanks and trays, micropipettes, analytical balances, vortex shakers, microscopes, a microwave oven, water baths, a pH meter, liquid nitrogen cylinders, magnetic stirrers, and dry baths.
Training & Collaboration
The lab hosts doctoral students, postdoctoral researchers, interns, and collaborators working across molecular ecology, genomics, agroecology, and invasion biology.
We welcome collaborations that integrate molecular tools with field ecology, geospatial modelling, and conservation policy.
Assessing impacts of geographic range size, fragmentation, and harvesting on genetic diversity and connectivity using population and landscape genetics frameworks.
Reconstructing phylogenetic relationships and biogeographic patterns of endemic and threatened taxa, and resolving cryptic species using sequencing approaches.
Reconstructing invasion pathways and assessing genetic variability in invasive species that may facilitate spread. Integrating species distribution modelling with genomic data for risk assessment.
Experimental evaluation of predator-mediated pest regulation using owl perch installations in agricultural fields, examining reductions in rodent damage and associated economic benefits as biodiversity-based alternatives to chemical control. Molecular analysis of soil microbial and invertebrate enrichment under regenerative farming practices, including the development and assessment of microbial consortia and biofertilizer applications.
Identifying conservation hotspots, developing DNA barcodes, and assessing adulteration in medicinal plant supply chains.
