Recent advances in molecular biology allow us to develop and apply the tools and concepts of molecular genetics to the conservation of biological resources. In many cases, single or multiple genes are selected for understanding the status and dynamics of wildlife populations. Working with our partners, we design and implement studies that provide the genetic information needed to address the issues and problems described in the following paragraphs.

Population structure – Genetic data can be used to determine the level of genetic variation within and between populations and, consequently, the level of gene flow and movement among populations throughout a species' range.

Assess taxonomic uncertainty – Genetic data, along with other lines of evidence such as morphological and behavioral characteristics, can be used to identify and potentially to redefine the existing taxonomic classification of a given species or subspecies. Such delineations are highly relevant for species status determinations (endangered, threatened, or at-risk).

Delineation of discrete populations – Genetic data can be particularly relevant in identifying and differentiating discrete populations that may warrant special protection (Distinct Population Segment) or specific management strategies (management unit).

Assess environmental change – With advancing genomic technology, it is now possible to locate and to assess genes that may be directly involved in a species' ability to respond to environmental change (for example, climate change).

Landscape genetics – Genetic data can be used in conjunction with landscape data (for example, habitat, elevation, roads) to identify landscape features that function as barriers to movement for species.

Assess family relations/mating systems – Genetic data can be used to investigate mating systems and parentage and how this may influence effective population size, the number of individuals in a population that actually contribute genes to succeeding generations.

Captive breeding and reintroduction/translocations – Genetic data can be used to inform captive breeding, reintroduction, and translocation programs to ensure that genetic diversity is maximized, or to ensure that when moving animals from one location to another, the genetic makeup of the individual or the population is considered.

Population modeling – Genetic data can be used in population models for predicting the potential effects of different management scenarios (for example, fertility control) on the genetic diversity of managed populations.

Estimate population size and survival rates – DNA from non-invasively sampled individuals (using feathers, feces, or hair, for example) can be used as a molecular tag and analyzed with traditional mark-recapture techniques to estimate population size and survival rates.

Species identification – Molecular genetic tests can be used to identify the species and sometimes even the population of origin from a sample (feather, tissue, feces, hair) of unknown origin.

Gender identification – Genetic data can be used to identify the gender of an individual when morphological or behavioral characteristics between males and females are indistinguishable.