Vertebrate molecular ecology and conservation biology

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My research integrates modern genetic approaches with traditional ecological studies of vertebrate populations We uses DNA profiling to detect extra-pair fertilization (EPF) in vertebrates and assess the breeding system of animals difficult to observe in the field. We have established a partnership with Nunavut biologists to analyse polar bear DNA samples collected during routine mark and recapture censuses. The goal is to use genetic tags to trace the movement of bears within and between the management units of M'Clintock Channel and the Gulf of Boothia, as well as revealing which male bears sire most of the cubs in a given area, useful in planning the best way manage populations. Working with the community of Gjoa Haven we hope to involve local hunters in efforts to regularly census large areas so the Dept. of Environment is better able to establish sustainable harvests. The high cost of traveling and living in the arctic makes such projects difficult without the assistance of agencies such as NSERC.