Active Projects

Monitoring elasmobranchs (and bycatch) in Atlantic waters using eDNA

This research will address the gaps in Irish skate and ray knowledge by combining cutting edge, environmental DNA (eDNA)-based survey techniques with existing records and species distribution models. Focusing on the West coast of Ireland, we will address bycatch monitoring difficulties by comparing the relative abundance of skate and ray eDNA to those obtained from different fishing technologies. Finally, we will also carry out an investigation into population sizes and connectivity around Ireland using the latest genomic methods.

Habitat selection and connectivity in the lesser horseshoe bat in Ireland

We are investigating habitat selection and connectivity in the lesser horseshoe bat in western Ireland using a variety of techniques. This will focus on DNA metabarcoding techniques on hundreds of individually genotyped faecal samples and investigating relationships with co-occurring species to ascertain the factors associated with the species persistence in Ireland.

Optimising non-invasive genetic methods for monitoring badgers in Ireland

To order to implement effective bTB control/eradication in Ireland, we aim to optimise non-invasive genetic methods for estimating badger population size, and ultimately, vaccination coverage. In addition, we will assess the efficacy and costs of population estimates based genetic methods in comparison to those from live-trapping. This genetic data will also allow us to investigate dispersal patterns and genetic changes over time, which are key parameters for assessing the impact of wildlife interventions and how policies may need to be adapted in the future.

Non-invasive genetic monitoring of red deer in Ireland

We are also using non-invasive genetics for identifying individuals (using microsatellites) from faecal samples of red deer (Cervus elaphus) in Ireland. These methods will be used to determine census and effective population sizes, and as a comparison with estimates from more traditional survey methods.

Irish National Otter Survey

As part of the Irish National Otter Survey in 2023-2024 funded by the NPWS, we are applying the latest eDNA monitoring methods to compare to the traditional approaches used.

Invasion pathways and pathogen spread of brown and black rats in the Atlantic Islands

Worldwide, rats are responsible for major economic damage, food spoilage and constitute a serious threat to human and animal health. Globalized trading routes facilitate the dispersal of rats and their pathogens, with seaports being pivotal entry points. Rats at seaports in Portugal (mainland and insular) and surrounding urban populations will be investigated to determine the level of resistance to anticoagulant rodenticides; identification of characterization of pathogens and rat invasion routes.

Next-generation phylogeography and adaptation of the red fox in Europe

Adaptation to the local environment is key to the long-term persistence of populations. This is particularly relevant as humans (and their impacts) become important drivers of rapid evolutionary change. We are investigating phylogeographic history and range-wide adaptation and structure  in red foxes (Vulpes vulpes).

Colonization of Ireland

As islands, Ireland and Britain are composed of a fascinating mixture of natural and introduced species. To understand the roles of the ice ages and ancient peoples in the history of the fauna of both islands, we utilize molecular markers on modern and ancient specimens in phylogeographic analyses, in combination with data from fossil material and archaeology. 

Completed Projects

Illegal Wildlife Trade in Indonesian Sharks & Rays

Indonesia is the largest and most diverse elasmobranch fishery in the world, and the third largest trader in shark and ray products (e.g. fins). Elasmobranch products are often difficult to identify to species level, making it challenging to detect protected species being illegally traded. This project aims to improve the capacity of trade regulators and law enforcement to detect illegally traded species through molecular approaches.

Population genomics of deep sea fishes

We are investigating population connectivity using genomic data in two closely related deep-sea fishes, the common ling and the blue ling .