NWO funded PhD project - Asian elephant genomics for conservation: from captivity to the wild

Endangered species often consist of small, fragmented populations that face inbreeding and associated genetic defects. To mitigate these problems in conservation efforts, we need a better understanding of these genetic characteristics, and how to manage them. In this project we use genomic data of the European captive population of Asian elephants to characterize which different subspecies of Asian elephants exist, and characterize the genetic health of these subspecies. Using computer simulations, we develop management strategies to minimize genetic problems in the captive population, and to assist potential future reintroduction of the species into the wild.