Zymo Research is thrilled to celebrate the success of the Molecular Ecology Working Group (MEWG) at The Wildlife Society’s 2024 Annual Conference, held October 19-23 in Baltimore, MD. Through our sponsorship, MEWG hosted an impressive lineup of events that connected researchers, fostered scientific exchange, and furthered their mission of promoting molecular biology in wildlife conservation.
Driving Research and Engagement through Sponsorship
With support from Zymo Research, MEWG hosted an impactful program of activities designed to engage both seasoned professionals and emerging scientists. Our sponsorship made it possible to fund travel awards for four graduate students, who had the opportunity to present their research with a national audience and engage in career-building discussions with leading wildlife professionals.
Attendees were especially excited about MEWG’s “Ask a Geneticist” session, where wildlife researchers could consult directly with genetics experts on a variety of topics—from data analysis and project design to the specific applications of molecular tools in wildlife studies. This open forum sparked many insightful conversations, showcasing MEWG’s commitment to making molecular ecology accessible to all researchers in the field.
Hands-On eDNA Workshop at the National Aquarium
One of the conference highlights was MEWG’s interactive environmental DNA (eDNA) workshop, held at Baltimore’s National Aquarium. eDNA has garnered significant interest over the last several years because it enables the detection of organisms in an ecosystem that are low in abundance or difficult to directly observe, allowing for a more comprehensive assessment of biodiversity and better conservation management strategies. Attendees got hands-on experience with eDNA sampling techniques in a unique setting, collecting eDNA from a dolphin tank and exploring the potential of using eDNA analysis to detect invasive species, such as Zebra mussels, in an aquatic environment. Zymo provided workshop participants with PCR inhibitor removal kits to use in their own research, which are critical for removing contaminants from eDNA that interfere with downstream analysis, as well as informative resources for working with eDNA to help guide their projects.
Celebrating the Next Generation of Wildlife Scientists
The student travel award recipients presented at the MEWG’s symposium, “Genetic Advances in Disease Ecology,” where they shared their latest findings on genetics applications for wildlife health, sparking conversations around the potential of molecular tools to address pressing environmental and health issues in wildlife. Our contribution helped these young scientists gain exposure, make connections, and inspire others within the TWS community. MEWG also organized a social event on Monday evening, where attendees had the chance to network and explore collaborative opportunities, serving as a fantastic setting for conversations about the role of genetic tools in wildlife management.
A Shared Mission for Wildlife Conservation
Rachael Giglio, MEWG Chair, expressed gratitude for Zymo Research’s support, stating, “[The] Molecular Ecology Working Group had a large presence at the TWS conference and our events were a huge success. We couldn’t have done it without the support of Zymo and we appreciate all that you do for us.”
Zymo Research is honored to have partnered with MEWG for this year’s conference and to continue supporting molecular ecology through education and collaboration. We’re excited to work with MEWG on a series of upcoming webinars to share more of their pioneering research with a wider audience.
Discover More
At Zymo Research, we believe in advancing scientific discovery while promoting environmental stewardship. Our commitment to sustainability is at the heart of everything we do, from developing environmentally friendly products to supporting research that protects biodiversity. Learn more about our sustainability initiatives.
To learn more about The Wildlife Society’s Annual Conference and the important work being done in wildlife science and conservation, visit https://twsconference.org/past-conferences/
Stay tuned for more updates as we collaborate with MEWG on future educational initiatives that bring molecular biology into the hands of those driving wildlife conservation forward.