Grant: Research Tools and Instruments - Category 1 (<$150,000)

The requested equipment (high through-put DNA analyzer) will form a multi-user, interdisciplinary centralized facility coordinated by full-time U Windsor (GLIER) staff. The infrastructure will support diverse applications which can be categorized into three broad areas; 1) POPULATION GENETICS: The requested equipment is required for population genetic analysis of both dispersal and gene flow. Dispersal can be estimated by assigning individual genotypes to potential sources based on genotype matching. Gene flow involves both dispersal and reproduction, hence population-level comparisons must be made to infer gene flow among sites. Both analyses require large numbers of genotypes, and the requested infrastructure is capable of fast inexpensive genotyping. 2) PARENTAGE AND KINSHIP: Our understanding of the complex behavioural contributions to successful reproduction in natural systems is incomplete, since we are still working to determine underlying patterns or mechanisms. Genetic determination of parentage and/or kinship is rapidly becoming a required technology for studies of sexual selection or reproductive biology in non-captive animals. Although such studies typically do not require as many genotypes as for population genetics applications, there is often a requirement for fast turn-around on the genotyping, thus a high though-put facility is critical. 3) CONSERVATION: The application of molecular genetics to conservation has revolutionized the management of endangered species and ecosystems. Examples include the identification of routes of invasion and the genetic status of isolated populations or rare species. The requested DNA analyzer will play a key role in those applications at U Windsor.     This equipment will support existing research programs, recruitment and retention of faculty, and timely completion of graduate research. The genetic approach to ecological and evolutionary research will foster collaboration among faculty at U Windsor and provide valuable skills training for students.