Behind the Science with Zoologist Matt Girard and World Ocean Day!

In celebration of World Ocean Day (June 8th) we are going Behind the Science with zoologist Matt Girard for a look beneath the waves using DNA and explore how NMNH scientists are building a DNA reference library for fish species that live in the U.S. Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), part of the Museum’s Ocean DNA Initiative. DNA libraries like these are transforming our ability to detect and monitor marine life using tiny traces of genetic material leftover in seawater—known as environmental DNA (eDNA). Through new field research, historical museum collections, and modern sequencing approaches, Matt will highlight why building these DNA libraries is essential for species discovery, conservation, fisheries management, and understanding a rapidly changing ocean.
Registration is encouraged. Space is filled on a first come first served basis.