The Vision of the Conservation Genetics Research Team is 'Innovative genetics research underpinning the conservation and restoration of Western Australia’s unique biodiversity'.
Through the application of modern molecular techniques, we seek to achieve our vision by addressing the following key research areas:
Conservation genetics; Restoration genetics; Taxonomy and phylogeny; Population genetic processes; Evolution and adaptation; Molecular forensics and identification; Mating and dispersal; and, Landscape genetics.
Specifically:
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Assessment of genetic processes behind the diversification and evolution of our biodiversity.
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Identification of levels and spatial structure of genetic variation within and among natural populations for the assessment of impact, conservation management, restoration, and post-mining rehabilitation.
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Genetic delineation of local provenance seed collection zones for improved native plant community restoration outcomes.
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Experimental assessment of local adaptation and the consequences of mixing of genetic provenances in a restoration context for improved native plant community restoration outcomes.
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Application of population genomic and transcriptomic approaches to find genes that are adaptative in the natural environment, quantify their diversity, and to reveal their ecological and physiological function.
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Assessment of genetic variation in the context of resilience to climate change and other threatening processes.
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Taxonomic assessment and molecular phylogenetic research for an improved understanding of the diversity and natural relationships of native taxa.
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Use of a DNA barcoding approach as a rapid species identification tool for conservation outcomes.
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Understanding of realised mating patterns, pollen dispersal and the factors influencing reproductive success, in natural plant populations.
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Detailed analysis of realized long-distance dispersal of seed for an assessment of migration capacity in the face of climate change and other threatening processes.
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Application of DNA fingerprinting and DNA sequencing for more efficient native plant breeding for horticultural markets.
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Application of DNA fingerprinting and DNA sequencing techniques for molecular ecological forensics and identification.
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Monitoring of genetic fidelity and variation for the management of ex-situ and translocated conservation collections.
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Wherever possible, genetics research programs are integrated with other BGPA Science disciplines, including restoration ecology, seed biology, ecophysiology, and conservation biotechnology.
Key techniques employed include:
Microsatellites; Amplified Fragment Length Polymorphism (AFLP); DNA sequencing; Expressed Sequence Tags (ESTs); microarrays; cytogenetics; reciprocal transplant experiments; glasshouse trials; and, pollination manipulation experiments.