Conservation genetics workshop equips researchers with genomic tools for biodiversity management
Hosted by the Centre for Biodiversity Analysis (CBA), researchers, students, and conservation professionals gathered for a three-day workshop led by renowned conservation geneticist Professor Fred W. Allendorf, Regents Professor Emeritus at the University of Montana.
The workshop, based on Allendorf et al.'s landmark text Conservation and the Genomics of Populations (3rd ed., 2022), provided participants with a strong grounding in the genetic and genomic principles underpinning species conservation and management. Over three intensive days, participants explored topics such as genomic variation, gene flow, inbreeding depression, population structure, and the impacts of climate change on biodiversity.
Guest presenters Dr Jenny Pierson (Australian Wildlife Conservancy), Dr Robyn Shaw, Dr Peta Hill, Dr Emily Stringer, Prof Bernd Gruber, (University of Canberra) and Dr Caroline Chong (NT Government) shared their expertise through local case studies and a lively career panel discussion on conservation genetics pathways.
Participants praised the workshop’s clarity, accessibility, and applied focus:
“The content was rich, engaging, and very well designed. Every concept was paired with clear, real-world research findings—it really helped me see how these ideas are applied in actual scientific work.”
“Even as a non-specialist, I came away with a solid understanding of the fundamentals. The sessions were well-paced, interactive, and inspiring.”
The event underscored the essential role of genomics in conservation science, equipping researchers with the tools and theoretical framework needed to address pressing biodiversity challenges in Australia and around the world.