Current Research Students

Our students work on a range of exciting projects, which are outlined below.

Sam Bagot (PhD Student) is working towards the development of several genomic resources for phascolarctos cinereus (koalas). This includes the first marsupial pangenome which will allow for improved mapping of genomic data across diverse populations, and the analysis of structural variation and their potential impact on phenotype. Additionally, he aims to generate low cost, methylation based epigenetic clocks capable of aging wild animals significantly more accurate than current field methods such as tooth wear classes.

Meg Emery (PhD Student) is characterising the immune genes, in particular the major histocompatibility complex, of the critically endangered orange-bellied parrot and related Neophema species. By generating reference genomes and employing comparative genomics, she is aiming to resolve the phylogeny of Neophema and provide evolutionary insights into immune response and disease susceptibility in the genus, ultimately contributing to ongoing conservation efforts for the orange-bellied parrot.

Jian Cui (PhD Student) is investigating the immune gene characterization and expression in the Tasmanian devil and other marsupials.

Adele Gonsalvez (PhD Student) is using a variety of ‘omics resources to investigate the unique genes, peptides and traits of Australia’s monotremes. This work particularly focuses on the characterisation and functional investigation of platypus venom and monotreme-specific genes, aiming to discover novel components and their functions to better understand these animals.

Gabriele Zenato Lazzari (PhD student) is interested in exploring the potential of genomics in the conservation of endangered species, in particular the jaguar (Panthera onca). By developing a genome-enabled SNP panel for large-scale genetic, ecological and forensic analysis of jaguars, she aims to provide a reproducible, low cost and high-throughput tool for geographical assignment and population management of this species. Additionally, she is also monitoring the genome and immunome-wide genetic diversity of jaguar populations from Brazil and Argentina in order to assist the species long-term recovery.