About the Lab

WHAT WE DO

The Wildlife Genetics and Ecology Laboratory (WGEL) conducts research in the fields of conservation genetics, population genomics, and applied ecology at the University of Rhode Island. The WGEL collaborates with state biologists, federal biologist, zoo professionals, and other academic researchers. In particular, the WGEL works closely with the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management’s (RIDEM) Division of Fish and Wildlife to help inform their management decisions. The WGEL mainly researches mammals in the Northeastern United States, but they also conduct international research projects. One of WGEL’s main local projects is conserving New England cottontail, which is a Species of Greatest Conservation Need in the Northeastern United States. The WGEL also has been researching the ecology of bobcats and American black bear. Recently, the WGEL began a population genomics project studying brook trout. Internationally, the WGEL is currently involved in an applied ecology study of pangolin in Nepal. In the past, the WGEL has conducted research on the conservation genetics of tree kangaroo in Papua New Guinea and mammalian biodiversity in agroforestry systems in Kenya and Peru.

MISSION STATEMENT

The Wildlife Genetics and Ecology Laboratory (WGEL) integrates state-of-the-art and more traditional technologies to inform applied management decisions for rare and endangered wildlife. The WGEL conducts sound scientific research to conserve species, protect habitat, and improve the health and well-being of all earth’s inhabitants.

VISION STATEMENT

The Wildlife Genetics and Ecology Laboratory’s (WGEL) vision is to be the premier high-volume laboratory in New England collaborating with state and federal biologist on the conservation of rare and endangered species. The WGEL strives to communicate their research results to the scientific community and general public to inform policy decisions to preserve our environment.