Research Focus Area

Genomics

Genetic data reveals the fundamental blueprints of life in the ocean, providing deep insight into how organisms function, adapt, and evolve in response to environmental pressures.

Understanding marine genomics is crucial for uncovering biodiversity patterns, assessing species resilience to climate change, and discovering new genetic resources that could inform medicine, biotechnology, and conservation efforts.

The Challenge

Studying marine genomes traditionally requires collecting samples and transporting them to distant labs for analysis, which can degrade genetic material and delay discoveries. Moreover, many ocean species remain genetically uncharacterized, limiting our understanding of their biology and ecological roles. Without timely, high-quality genomic data, we miss opportunities to track genetic diversity, monitor population health, and identify species at risk.

Our Approach

The OceanXplorer’s onboard laboratories are equipped with advanced genome sequencing and bioinformatics tools, enabling scientists to conduct whole-genome analyses in real time. This capability allows us to study marine DNA directly at sea, catalog new species, and understand genetic adaptations on the spot. By integrating genomics with ecological data, we accelerate discoveries and provide vital insights that support biodiversity conservation, climate resilience, and informed ocean management.

Key Objectives

  • Sequence and analyze genomes of deep-sea and reef organisms.

  • Investigate microbial diversity in extreme environments such as brine pools and blue holes.

  • Understand genetic adaptations to environmental stressors such as temperature, pressure, and acidification.

Our Methodologies 

  • DNA and RNA Extraction: Processing biological and environmental samples using commercial extraction kits onboard.

  • Onboard Sequencing: Utilizing Oxford Nanopore GridION and PromethION platforms for whole-genome and metagenomic sequencing at sea.

  • Cold Chain Preservation: Storing samples with ultra-low temperature freezers and cryopreservation systems to maintain sample integrity.

  • Bioinformatics: Running de novo genome assembly, gene annotation, and comparative genomics using high-performance computing resources onboard.

  • Integration with eDNA and Microbiome Studies: Linking genomic data to environmental and ecological patterns for broader ecosystem insight.