Genetic Diversity in Franklin’s Ground Squirrels

The project aims to characterize mitochondrial genetic diversity in historical and contemporary individuals of Franklin’s ground squirrels. Currently this species is listed as “data deficient” in the province of Alberta, meaning that there is not enough information to determine if it is declining and in need of protections. Genetic information, coupled with other information from field surveys and community observations, can help to fill this information gap and help guide management decisions.

Franklin's Ground Squirrel DNA project

The goal of this project is to develop genetic resources for Franklin’s ground squirrels. Franklin’s ground squirrels are a native species in Alberta. While not currently listed under the Species At Risk Act (SARA) observational evidence from naturalists indicates that this species has experienced recent declines in abundance. Working collaboration with Dr. Jessica Haines who will be leading field work to assess the current distribution of the species in the province, we will be developing a new set of genetic markers that can help estimate current genetic diversity as well as past population sizes.

Franklin's Ground Squirrel DNA project Phase 2

The goal of this project is to develop genetic resources for Franklin’s ground squirrels. Franklin’s ground squirrels are a native species in Alberta. While not currently listed under the Species At Risk Act (SARA) observational evidence from naturalists indicates that this species has experienced recent declines in abundance. Working collaboration with Dr. Jessica Haines who will be leading field work to assess the current distribution of the species in the province, we will be developing a new set of genetic markers that can help estimate current genetic diversity as well as past population sizes.

LevelUp Genetic Diversity in Arctic Grayling

Assess the genetic diversity of Arctic grayling in the province of Alberta using mitochondrial DNA sequencing