Science Faculty

Seminario del 21 de noviembre de 2024

David Combosch, Profesor Asociado Universidad de Guam

Dr. David Combosch, a professor of population genetics at the University of Guam, will present some of his latest research on the evolutionary history of reef corals in Micronesia—a huge region in the Tropical Western Pacific with thousands of small islands and some of the world’s most diverse coral reefs. Reefs are vital for this region but under threat from rapid environmental change.
In his talk, Dr. Combosch will discuss how he employs phylogenomic and population genomic tools to enhance our understanding of coral systematics, population connectivity and genetic diversity across islands. A better understanding of these fundamental characteristics is essential for effective management, conservation, and to guide local restoration efforts. A focal point of his research explores drivers of coral clonality and how habitat differences influence connectivity across reef systems.
Additionally, Dr. Combosch will also briefly introduce the unique coral ecosystems of Micronesia and the challenges and rewards of conducting research in these remote and tiny tropical islands.