University of Otago researchers, many of whom are Genetics Otago members, are pioneering the use of eDNA in New Zealand to study a number of avenues from native species, to COVID-19 and (as you may have heard previously) in a search for the Loch Ness Monster. The basis of eDNA (environmental DNA) research is that living things are constantly shedding DNA into their environment (soil, water etc). This DNA that is left behind can help scientists gain a snapshot of what and who has been in a particular location, from large vertebrates all the way down to microbes. eDNA provides a great means to quickly capture a lot of information about an environment in a non-destructive manner and although the technique does have its limitations, it is a great starting point in many conservation and environmental studies.
Third-year Medical School student Gavin Bishop has created a short film “eDNA for marine monitoring and population genetics” featuring Genetics Otago member and PhD student Clare Adams (Department of Anatomy). His film has been selected as one of five finalists in the University of Otago Student 90–second Science Film Competition and he is hoping to win the People’s Choice award for his work.
“I am absolutely fascinated by the creativity of scientists”
– Gavin Bishop, 3rd-year Medical Student.
You can help Gavin out by heading over to YouTube and watching, sharing and commenting on his film. So during your next coffee break take a couple of minutes to watch this great short film and share it with your colleagues and friends – let’s get this snapshot of Genetics out into the community!
