The use of genetic analysis in wildlife research is becoming increasingly widespread. From studies of ecology and evolution to applications in zoo breeding programmes, genetic information is advancing our knowledge of the world’s flora and fauna and improving our ability to conserve it. We provide analytical and consultancy services to researchers involved in applied conservation or academic studies.

Conservation Genetics

Conservation Genetics is concerned with the genetic management of small populations both in the wild and in captivity. This established field aims to provide valuable new information for making decisions about conservation strategy.

One of our principal aims is to enable the incorporation of genetic information into conservation management. By designing and undertaking population genetic surveys and interpreting their results, we provide specialist genetic advice to wildlife managers to assist them in devising the optimum conservation strategy for a specific population.

We offer a range of research services that allow project managers to select the level of our involvement appropriate to their experience of genetic analysis.


Academic Research

The application of molecular methods to broader areas of biological research can generate important baseline information about a model species under study. The construction of molecular phylogenies and an understanding of population structure allow investigators to assess species behaviour, physiology, and evolution based on genetically derived relationships. At an individual level, genetic markers can be used to map migration patterns, assess reproductive success or select individuals for breeding programmes.

We have a great deal of experience working in collaboration with academic researchers to generate genetic information as a component of a larger investigation. One of the key advantages that we bring to academic research is flexibility of contract size. We can undertake projects lasting from weeks to years, supplying genetic data efficiently to the exact specifications required. In addition, our work is not liable to institutional overheads and we reserve no publication rights over the data produced.