Derek Bickhart appointed associate professor Computational Genomics
- FM (Fenna) van der Poel
- Editor
Derek Bickhart has been appointed associate professor by special appointment in Computational Genomics at Wageningen University & Research. Starting from June 1st, Derek will join the Animal Breeding and Genomics (ABG) chair group one day per week. The position is supported by Hendrix Genetics, a multi-species breeding company.
Research focus
Derek Bickhart will aim to develop novel, scalable, accurate, high-resolution computational methods for DNA-based animal genotyping. Research topics will include the development of improved functional genomics resources for livestock species. This research will contribute to one of ABG’s primary goals by enabling deeper insights into genome function and phenotypic variation, which are essential for advanced animal breeding research and applications, and furthering genetic improvement of animal health and welfare in animal populations.
Career
Derek Bickhart obtained both his MSc and PhD in Genetics and Genomics at the University of Connecticut, with his PhD research focused on the dynamics of mobile genetic elements in microbial genome assemblies. After receiving his degree, he was a researcher at USDA-ARS for 13 years, first as a Research Geneticist and then as a Research Microbiologist. His research focused on the detection of structural and functional variants, assembling reference genomes for livestock species and developing novel methodologies for the field of metagenomics. He was hired by Hendrix Genetics in 2022 as a Bioinformatician and is currently the Team Lead in Bioinformatics in the Global Research and Technology Center of the company. His team focuses on the development of improved genetics resources, better genotyping tools, and functional genetic screens for all Hendrix Genetics species.
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