Learn about some of the work that graduate students, postdocs, and early career faculty are contributing to the field of genomic prediction.

Since 2012, the GSA Journals have published a series of papers focused on genomic prediction. We’re excited to announce a newly-organized Series page that makes it easy to navigate the extensive collection of genomic prediction papers published at GENETICS and G3. We’d also like to introduce you to a few early career scientists currently working in the field and to give you a glimpse into the types of research they do.

 

 

 

 

 

Antoine Allier
Graduate student, INRA
Le Moulon, Alain Charcosset Lab

“My current research aims at optimizing the management of genetic diversity in breeding programs using genomic selection. In particular, I am working on the prediction of cross variance and genetic diversity for optimal cross selection.”

 

 

 

 

 

Matt Baseggio
Graduate student, Cornell University
Michael Gore Lab

“Large proportions of the US population do not meet the daily-recommended intake of several vitamins and nutrients. My research is trying to improve the nutritional quality of sweet corn—the third most consumed vegetable in the US. I conducted genome-wide association studies to identify genes and favorable alleles responsible for quantitative variation of kernel carotenoid (provitamin A, lutein, zeaxanthin), tocochromanol (vitamin E), and nutrient (iron and zinc) levels in a sweet corn diversity panel. I am also developing and validating marker-based prediction models to convert locally adapted sweet corn germplasm to dark orange kernel with high vitamin and nutrient content.”

 

 

 

 

 

Anthony Findley
MD/PhD student, Wayne State University
Roger Pique-Regi and Francesca Luca Labs

“My research focuses on gene regulation in varying environmental contexts and cell types. I integrate gene expression and chromatin accessibility data from cells treated with a variety of hormones, environmental contaminants, drugs, and metals to identify regulatory elements which modulate cellular response to each condition. I am particularly interested in linking these in vitro exposures with complex traits and understanding how genetic variation in environmentally responsive regulatory elements can be used to predict disease susceptibility.”

 

 

 

 

 

Margaret Krause
Graduate student, Cornell University
Mark Sorrells and Michael Gore Labs

“My research focuses on the integration of high-throughput phenotyping and genomic selection in plant breeding. Advances in remote sensing have enabled plant breeders and geneticists to collect an extensive amount of phenotypic information on large numbers of individuals throughout their growth and development. Integrating these traits into genomic selection has the potential to increase the rate of genetic gain in crop plants.”

 

 

 

 

 

Jhonathan Pedroso Rigal dos Santos
Graduate student, University of São Paulo and Cornell University
Michael Gore Lab

“The ability to connect information between traits over time allow Bayesian networks to offer a powerful probabilistic framework to design genomic prediction models. In our research, we phenotyped (plant height time series, biomass) and genotyped (100,435 SNPs) a diverse panel of 869 sorghum lines. We developed the models Bayesian Network (BN), Pleiotropic Bayesian Network (PBN), and Dynamic Bayesian Network (DBN). For benchmarking, we used multivariate GBLUP models. The DBN model approached the same accuracy as the reference model and allowed to compute probabilistic indexes to identify optimal time points before the end of the season for earlier indirect selection.”

 

 

 

 

 

Fabio Morgante
Postdoc, University of Chicago
Yang Li and Matthew Stephens Labs

“I am interested in statistical and quantitative genetics in a variety of species, with a special focus on prediction of complex traits. While my initial work involved analyzing livestock data, I quickly transitioned to using Drosophila melanogaster as a model system to develop statistical models and analysis strategies to predict complex traits more accurately, by leveraging multiple layers of data (e.g., genomic, transcriptomic, metabolomic). Recently, I have become interested in human genetics and have been working on a method that exploits the sharing of eQTL effects among different tissues to increase the prediction accuracy of expression levels from genotype data.”

 

 

 

 

 

Ivone de Bem Oliveira
Postdoc, University of Florida
Patricio Muñoz Lab

“My research has been focused on the intersection between breeding and genomics, particularly in developing solutions to improve the selection process for polyploid breeding. Our pioneering research has proven the feasibility of genomic prediction for blueberry, enabling reductions in breeding cycle times and increasing genetic gain. Now we are optimizing the relationship between genotyping cost and model accuracy for an economically feasible application of genome prediction for blueberry. I am evaluating the effect of number of markers, sequencing depth, and training population on phenotype prediction. The benefits and pipeline described in our studies can be applied to other polyploid species.”

 

 

 

 

 

Blaise Ratcliffe
Postdoc, University of British Columbia
Yousry El-Kassaby Lab

“My research focuses on the integration and use of genomic information in conifer tree improvement programs. Genomic selection tools have the potential to accelerate rates of genetic gain for complex, quantitative traits through early prediction of phenotypes and increased selection intensity. These new tools enable breeding programs to respond rapidly to the changing market demands of forest products as well as emerging abiotic and biotic threats.”

 

 

 

 

 

Palle Duun Rohde
Postdoc, Center for Quantitative Genetics and Genomics at Aarhus University
Peter Sorensen Lab

“My work focuses on the accurate prediction of individual disease risk or the response to medical treatment is important for the development of precision medicine. To successfully advance in precision medicine a better understanding of the genetic architecture of human complex traits and disease is required. In my research, I focus on statistical genetic methods for integration of different types of data to achieve a better understanding of the genetic basis of complex traits and diseases. Currently, my work is focused on how to leverage multi-layered phenotypes and multi-layered molecular data to improve current prediction models, in particular with respect to treatment response.”

 

 

 

 

 

Nicholas Schreck
Postdoc, University of Mannheim
Martin Schlather Lab

“I focus on the theoretical analysis of mixed linear models with special focus to the estimation of the additive genomic variance. I also investigate coefficients of determination in mixed linear models with the aim of efficient variable selection for high-dimensional genomic data sets.”

 

 

 

 

 

Gregory Way
Postdoc, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard
Anne Carpenter Lab

“My PhD focused on developing supervised and unsupervised machine learning approaches to extract knowledge from large publicly available gene expression data sets. I have developed approaches to isolate gene expression signatures in tumors including identifying Ras pathway activation and TP53 inactivation signatures. In my postdoc, I will focus on extracting knowledge from large biomedical imaging data sets. My goals include developing methods that measure subtle responses to drug treatments in cell lines and to integrate imaging and gene expression data to provide additional views towards solving difficult biomedical problems.”

 

 

 

 

 

Yvonne Wientjes
Postdoc, Wageningen University
Research Animal Breeding and Genomics

“Genomic selection has revolutionized artificial selection in livestock populations. Compared to classical selection, genomic selection is more accurate, focusses more on genes with large effects and ignores rare genes or with small effects. Therefore, genomic selection has likely increased the change in allele frequencies of genes over generations and may have changed the effects of those genes when non-additive effects are present. I aim to investigate how fast genomic selection methods change the genetic architecture of traits, i.e. the allele frequencies and effects underlying the trait. This will provide information on whether current selection methods limit the potential for long-term genetic improvement.”

 

 

 

 

 

Alencar Xavier
Research Scientist, Corteva Agrisciences and Purdue University
David Habier Lab

“My work on statistical genetics is focused on genomic-assisted breeding with emphasis on theoretical and computational aspects of data-driven plant breeding, such as modeling, prediction and selection using various sources of information. My research regards the development and implementation of new quantitative methods using mixed models, Bayesian methods and machine learning, along with high-performance computing.”

 

 

 

 

 

Robert Baker
Assistant Professor, Miami University

“I study organismal evolution of plant form and function. To do so, I examine the connection between genotypes and phenotypes throughout development and across environments at the intraspecific level. My research integrates quantitative genetics, genomics, transcriptomics, anatomy, morphology, and physiology in plants from natural, model, and crop systems. I use these data in part to predict novel, non-linear developmental phenotypes based on genotypes. My work has implications for understanding natural biodiversity, conservation and restoration, and improving agricultural sustainability.”

 

 

 

 

 

Helena Oakey
Senior Research Fellow, University of Adelaide
The Biometry Hub, Olena Kravchuk Lab

“My research interests cover the development and improvement of statistical genetic methodology, including genomic selection and association mapping to account for factors unique to agronomic trials such as replication, multiple phases (laboratory and field), treatments and environment.”

,
View all posts by Editorial Staff »

Read more in

  • Collage of 2021 Rosalind Franklin Award recipients

    Where are they now? Rosalind Franklin Young Investigator Award recipients share updates on their research

    Rosalind Franklin Young Investigator Award applications are open–make sure you submit your application or nomination of a colleague by September 30, 2024.

  • University of Minnesota researchers map genome of the last living wild horse species

    The study, published in G3: Genes|Genomes|Genetics, is part of larger conservation efforts to save Przewalski’s horse.

  • Congratulations to the Spring 2024 DeLill Nasser Awardees!

    GSA is pleased to announce the recipients of the DeLill Nasser Award for Professional Development in Genetics for Spring 2024! Given twice a year to graduate students and postdoctoral researchers, DeLill Nasser Awards support attendance at meetings and laboratory courses. The award is named in honor of DeLill Nasser, a long-time GSA supporter and National Science Foundation…

  • Carolyn Damilola headshot

    Carolyn Damilola: an NFS Rising Scientist on a lifelong quest to learn more

    Carolyn Damilola is an NFS Rising Scientist from Nigeria doing respiratory system research and paving the way for scientists from underrepresented communities through mentorship.

  • Text over a blue background image: Apply for up to $2,000 for your project from the Starter Culture Microgrant Program.

    What does a good microgrant proposal look like?

    Members of the Microgrant Review Committee share their tips for a successful proposal.

  • A blurred image of a human face is shown against a dark background.

    The first piece of the facial recognition puzzle

    New research in GENETICS gives a first peek at the molecular pathway involved in recognizing faces.

  • New Senior Editor Amy MacQueen joins GENETICS

    A new senior editor is joining GENETICS in the Genome Integrity and Transmission section. We’re excited to welcome Amy MacQueen to the editorial team.

  • Close up of an adult zebrafish with blue and white stripes in an aquarium with red lighting.

    Block party on the zebrafish sex chromosome

    Research in G3 identifies a gene regulatory block of the zebrafish genome responsible for overseeing the maternal-to-zygotic-transition.

  • Lemna Minor, the common duckweed

    Unraveling the mysteries of duckweed: epigenetic insights from Spirodela polyrhiza

    Research published in G3 offers insight into the impact of DNA methylation on clonal propagation in asexually reproducing plants.

  • Luciano Marraffini headshot

    A microbiologist’s quest to understand CRISPR in bacterial self-defense

    2024 Genetics Society of America Medal recipient Luciano Marraffini determined how CRISPR-Cas systems destroy genetic targets with precision, paving the way for gene editing technology development.

  • Elaine Ostrander headshot

    Unlocking mysteries of trait and disease heritability in dogs

    2024 Edward Novitski Prize recipient Elaine Ostrander, a pioneer of the domestic dog model, discovered numerous genes affecting dog size, morphology, behavior, and disease susceptibility—many of which have relevance in humans.

  • NSF-funded BIO-LEAPS Grant to Support Culture Change in Genetics

    GSA and collaborators Personal Genetics Education & Dialogue and Reclaiming STEM Institute launch NSF-funded BIO-LEAPS project to support culture change in genetics 

    We are thrilled to announce that the Genetics Society of America (GSA) is collaborating with the Personal Genetics Education & Dialogue (PGED) based in the Department of Genetics at Harvard Medical School, and the Reclaiming STEM Institute (RSI) on a Leading Culture Change Through Professional Societies of Biology (BIO-LEAPS) grant from the U.S. National Science…

  • Daman Saluja: Navigating Science and Policy in India

    In the Paths to Science Policy series, we talk to individuals who have a passion for science policy and are active in advocacy through their various roles and careers. The series aims to inform and guide early career scientists interested in science policy. This series is brought to you by the GSA Early Care­er Scientist…

  • Deborah Andrew headshot

    A fly geneticist’s journey into discovering rules of organ development

    2024 George W. Beadle Award recipient Deborah Andrew discovered new genes and pathways in Drosophila salivary gland organogenesis. Now, her work can help optimize cell secretion in therapeutic applications and fight malaria.

  • Małgorzata Gazda's headshot

    Małgorzata Gazda: How receiving the DeLill Nasser Award helped her land her dream job

    Have you ever experienced an event that changes the course of your life, or in this case, your career? Małgorzata (Gosia) Gazda is Assistant Professor at the University of Montreal and in 2022, she received the DeLill Nasser Award for Professional Development in Genetics, which she used to attend and present at the 2022 Population,…

  • Hongyu Zhao joins GENETICS as new Senior Editor

    A new senior editor is joining GENETICS in the Statistical Genetics and Genomics section. We’re excited to welcome Hongyu Zhao to the editorial team.

  • Julio Molina Pineda at TAGC 2024

    GSA Member Julio Molina Pineda Receives DeLill Nasser Award, Shines at TAGC 2024 

    “At any career stage, the GSA membership is an amazing investment for any genetics professional!” Julio Molina Pineda is a PhD Candidate in Cell and Molecular Biology and a Research Assistant at the University of Arkansas, and a Doctoral Academy Fellow at the Lewis Lab. In 2023, Julio was awarded the DeLill Nasser Award for…

  • Ed Grell at his dissecting microscope using ether to anesthetize his flies.

    In Memoriam: Ellsworth Herman Grell (1932–2023), a pioneer of Drosophila genome engineering and annotation

    Ellsworth (Ed) Grell blessed the Drosophila community through three enduring legacies: as a pioneer of chromosome mechanics, as a primary organizer and synthesizer of genetic knowledge in Drosophila, and as a graceful mentor to those fortunate to have known him personally. Ed grew up in rural Nebraska, completed his undergraduate studies at Iowa State, and…

  • Congratulations to the #Fungal24 Poster Award winners!

    We are pleased to announce the recipients of the GSA Poster Awards for posters presented at the 32nd Fungal Genetics Conference! Undergraduate and graduate student members of GSA were eligible for the awards, and a hard-working team of judges made the determinations. Congratulations to all! Felicia Ebot Ojong, The University of Georgia My research is focused…

  • Poster presentation tips for TAGC 2024

    You’ve been selected to present a poster at The Allied Genetics Conference 2024 in March—you’ve celebrated, made plans to attend, now what? This is an exciting opportunity to showcase your research and engage with fellow members of the genetics community, so you want to make sure you’re prepared. We wanted to offer you some tips…

  • Maximize your TAGC 2024 experience 

    A guide to all that National Harbor & DC have to offer Are you joining us for The Allied Genetics Conference 2024 in March? Make the most of your #TAGC24 experience in National Harbor! We know the science will keep you busy, but you deserve to unwind and have some fun, so we’ve curated a…

  • Early Career Leadership Spotlight: Sarah Petrosky

    We’re taking time to get to know the members of the GSA’s Early Career Scientist Committees. Join us to learn more about our early career scientist advocates. Sarah PetroskyMultimedia SubcommitteeUniversity of Pittsburgh Research Interest I am interested in understanding adaptation that has been happening recently in populations by dissecting the ways that genes underlying an adaptation…

  • TAGC 2024 Early Career Award Winners

    GSA is pleased to announce the winners of the early career awards presented at The Allied Genetics Conference 2024. These awards are specific to particular TAGC communities and recognize early career scientists’ outstanding work on their respective research organisms. The awardees will present their talks in keynote sessions at TAGC 2024.  Don’t miss the opportunity…

  • Preeminent geneticists recognized with revamped GSA Awards

    In 2022, GSA’s Board of Directors launched an audit to review the five major awards conferred by the Society. Today, we are thrilled to announce the recipients of the reimagined GSA Awards, including the new Genetics Society of America Early Career Medal. The scientists honored this year are recognized by their peers for their outstanding…

  • Fly Board funds outreach programs to spread the word about Drosophila research

    In 2020, the Fly Board voted to use part of its reserve fund to support efforts to increase trainee participation as well as equity and diversity in the Drosophila community. An awards committee decides how the money will be spent each year, and from 2020–2022, the committee posted a very broad call for applications from…

  • New members of the GSA Board of Directors: 2024–2026

    We are pleased to announce the election of four new leaders to the GSA Board of Directors: 2024 Vice President/2025 President Brenda Andrews Professor, University of Toronto It’s an honor to continue my association with the Society by serving as Vice President of the Board of Directors. I have broad knowledge of the ongoing activities…

  • The Fly Meeting is one-of-a-kind! Dros 2025 organizers share their excitement

    The 66th Annual Drosophila Research Conference promises to be a meeting rich with the latest in Drosophila research as well as opportunities to advance your career and connect with a global community of 1,400+ scientists. The organizers Todd Nystul, Michelle Bland, Leila Rieder, Amanda Crocker, and Justin Crocker are hard at work, planning a conference…

  • Early Career Leadership Spotlight: Olufemi Osonowo

    We’re taking time to get to know the members of the GSA’s Early Career Scientist Committees. Join us to learn more about our early career scientist advocates. Olufemi Adekunle OsonowoCareer Development SubcommitteeDalhousie University Research Interest Metabolomics and genomics are two distinct but complimentary approaches that offer valuable insights into the underlying mechanisms of complex traits, such…

  • Early Career Leadership Spotlight: Hector Mendoza

    We’re taking time to get to know the members of the GSA’s Early Career Scientist Committees. Join us to learn more about our early career scientist advocates. Hector MendozaCommunication and Outreach SubcommitteeUniversity of Michigan Research Interest My research goals converge around the evolution of sexual reproduction. During my doctoral program, I investigated mitochondrial inheritance, a mechanism…