We use genetic technologies to answer questions related to the conservation, management, and evolution of freshwater fishes, particularly lampreys. For example, our research: 1) helps address the dual challenge of conserving lamprey species and populations in their native ranges while also managing the invasive sea lamprey in the Great Lakes; 2) uses population genomic analysis to test for broad-scale patterns of genetic variation and selection in sea lamprey in its native and invasive range; 3) is investigating the long-standing mystery of sex determination and sex differentiation in lampreys; 4) explores the genetic basis of the repeated and parallel evolution of non-parasitism in lampreys; and 5) uses environmental DNA (eDNA) for monitoring of aquatic organisms, particularly species of conservation concern and invasive species.

Our research is highly collaborative and involves partnerships with Drs. Colin Garroway and Ken Jeffries at the University of Manitoba; Sara Good at the University of Winnipeg; Michael Wilkie at Wilfrid Laurier University; Robert Hanner, Daniel Heath & other GEN-FISH team members; John Hume at Michigan State University; and many more.

Click here to see a list of our publications.

Funding Provided By:

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JessieOgden_sealampreyLab
Brooklynne Field 2021 2
Arfa Khan – Docker lab

Collecting eDNA water samples from the Red River. July 2020.

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Collecting eDNA water samples from the Whitemouth River with OSMOS unit. September 2020.

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Brooklynne Litke enjoying a sunny day of eDNA sampling for her Honours research project. October 2020.

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Collected eDNA on filter paper after filtering a water sample using peristaltic pump. October 2020.

Arfa Khan – Docker lab 2

Collecting eDNA water samples from the Red River. July 2020.

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Measuring water parameters at eDNA sampling site. October 2020.

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Brooklynne Litke measuring water parameters at an eDNA sampling site.

Brooklynne Lab 2021
Arfa Khan – Docker lab
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Elma Rapids – September 2021
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Arfa Khan – Docker lab 3
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JessieOgden_sealampreyLab
Brooklynne Field 2021 2
Arfa Khan - Docker lab
Claire and Lauren
IMG_5908
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Arfa Khan - Docker lab 2
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Brooklynne Lab 2021
Arfa Khan - Docker lab
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Elma Rapids - September 2021
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Arfa Khan - Docker lab 3
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