Dr Anna MacDonald

As a molecular ecologist, I use genetic methods to address ecological questions and to inform wildlife management. We still have much to learn about the organisms that inhabit Antarctica and the Southern Ocean, and the threats they face. DNA can tell us about the species living in different ecosystems, what they eat, how they interact with other species, and how ‘healthy’ their genetic diversity is.

Environmental DNA (eDNA) samples are samples collected from the environment: these include DNA isolated from water, soil, sediment, and even from the air. At the Australian Antarctic Division, we use eDNA to understand and characterise marine, terrestrial and freshwater biodiversity. We can also isolate DNA from predator faeces. This provides information about predators and also about the species they eat. For example, we use DNA from penguin poo to understand how penguins rely on different species of krill and fish for food. This can help to identify the impacts of fisheries and other human activities on penguin populations. Genetic research can also inform conservation and management of threatened species. For example, measuring genetic diversity within and among albatross populations can help to tailor management strategies for different species, and to understand potential threats.

More broadly, my research highlights the importance of genetic diversity to species resilience and adaptability. As a member of international collaborations, I work to develop standardised and accessible tools to improve the way we evaluate, monitor, and protect genetic diversity.

My background is in molecular ecology and conservation genetics. I received my PhD in Applied Science from the University of Canberra in 2008. Before moving to the Australian Antarctic Division in 2021, I worked as a geneticist on a range of wildlife management projects, including using non-invasive DNA samples to detect and monitor non-native species, and on conservation genetics of threatened mammals, reptiles and fish. From 2017-2020, I was based at the Australian National University managing projects and coordinating research for the Oz Mammals Genomics Initiative, which developed genomic datasets to address conservation questions for Australian marsupials, rodents and bats.

Collaborate with Dr Anna MacDonald