Bruna Folegatti Santana

KTP Associate in Artemia Quantitative Genetics and Breeding

Current Research 

Develop and implement a breeding programme for artemia farming and pioneer scalable, affordable, improved and sustainable artemia cysts for the aquaculture hatchery industry.

Goals

  1. Breeding programme development
  • Build an in-silico model of breeding programme fitted for the partner company’s (Aquanzo ltd) existing data and infrastructure
  • Apply the in-silico model for testing various future breeding programmes
  • Develop the key breeding processes and data platform required for collecting and analysing Aquanzo breeding programme data. Analysis will be used to inform key breeding programme decisions
BFS
  1. Selection programme implementation
  • Implement a pilot of the most favourable in-silico breeding programme into Aquanzo’s routine
  • Implement the genetic selection models within the Aquanzo breeding programme
  • Test the pilot breeding programme ability to deliver genetic gain
  • Draft a publication with Research Partner and Knowledge Transfer Advisor
  1. Scale-up the breeding programme
  • Deploy the implemented and tested pilot at larger scale
  • Optimise data science and breeding protocols for seamless and routine operation
  • Monitor genetic gains and ensure continued and sustainable genetic improvement

Background

I hold academic training in animal breeding and genetics, with an emphasis on quantitative traits. Focusing on the genetic improvement of populations, my previous research projects have included predicting breeding values, estimating genetic parameters, and comparing statistical models. I have also worked on analysing the genetic architecture of complex traits and evaluating the effect of causative variants on the accuracy of (genomic) estimated breeding values.

I am specifically interested in:

  1. Breeding programme design and improvement, including:
  • Simulation studies
  • Development of selection indices
  • Implementation of selection strategies
  • Maintenance of genetic diversity within populations
  1. Statistical modelling and analytical approaches in:
  • Genetic and genomic evaluations
  • Genome-wide association studies (GWAS)
  1. High-throughput phenotyping:
  • Application of computer vision and AI-driven technologies to enhance data collection, trait analysis, and decision-making.
  1. Aquaculture innovation:
  • Integrated solutions to support sustainable and efficient aquaculture development.

Programming language and software

  • R
  • LaTex
  • Bash scripting
  • RStudio, RMarkdown
  • Python (Beginner)
  • Office
  • GitHub
  • Used in previous projects (BLUPF90 family of programms, Wombat, Plink)

Hobbies and Personal Interests

Water Activities:

I enjoy spending time in and around water—whether at swimming pools, beaches, or waterfalls. Recently, I joined a rowing and sailing club, which I am thoroughly enjoying.

Theology:

As a Christian, I have a deep interest in understanding biblical teachings. I regularly read the Bible, compare different translations, analyse texts, and explore original languages to better understand the meaning of key words. I also like learning about historical context, and diverse interpretations of scripture. 

Social Media

 

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