From the Academy to Research Associate at GMGI: Amanda

GMGI Fisheries Team members Dr. Emma Strand and Amanda Full have been looking deeper into whether epigenetic ageing clocks can be utilized for certain invertebrates, including several species of squid.

Epigenetic ageing clocks are non-lethal methods that use methylated portions of DNA to predict an organism’s age. Chronological age is a critical demographic data point for sustainable fisheries management, yet there are many species that have no reliable methods for calculating age. Longfin squid (Doryteuthis pealeii) is a perfect example of a species with commercial importance and minimal established ageing methods.

After developing an epigenetic ageing clock for haddock (Melanogrammus aeglefinus), a local, commercially important species, Dr. Strand is now collaborating with NOAA Fisheries at the Narragansett Laboratory in Rhode Island to develop an epigenetic ageing clock for D. pealeii. As part of this process, Dr. Strand and Amanda have been optimizing three protocols: 1) DNA extraction protocol to gather high-quality DNA from squid fin tissue, 2) methyl-binding domain (MBD) based enrichment for methylated regions, and 3) enzymatic-based conversion protocols for library preparation for sequencing.

Amanda began working on this project as a co-op student at Gloucester Biotechnology Academy, GMGI’s hands-on training program that prepares high school graduates for careers in the life sciences.

After graduating from the University of Rhode Island in 2024 with a B.S. in Marine Affairs, Amanda wanted to gain more hands-on lab experience to open up more job opportunities in marine science. After her acceptance into the Academy’s Class of 2026,  Amanda’s passion for science grew. When it came time to apply for co-op positions, Amanda was excited about the possibility of working at GMGI and participating in marine research. Amanda began as a Research and Lab Management co-op on the fisheries team, with her co-op being extended and expanded to continue working with the fisheries team, as well as the eDNA service. Amanda is now a full-time Research Associate I on the eDNA Service team, and is very excited to continue to grow as a scientist and to help the eDNA Service expand!