The Center for Aquaculture Technologies (CAT) is delighted to welcome Dr. Klara Verbyla as a Director of Genomics and Breeding and Associate Vice President of Genetics. Dr. Verbyla will oversee the development of new methods in customizing breeding programs to promote growth and sustainability in the aquaculture industry. This will include facilitating the practical application of genome editing to commercial breeding programs.
Dr. Klara Verbyla brings over a decade of experience in designing and delivering innovative research in genomics, statistical/quantitative genetics, and applied breeding, with expertise in the application of new technologies for the genetic improvement of species.
A graduate of The University of Melbourne, Klara was the recipient of a European Union Marie Curie Early Career Fellowship. She played a pivotal role in the successful commercial implementation of genomic selection for the Tasmanian Atlantic salmon industry and was the genomics expert on the Salmon Applied Breeding team that won the prestigious CSIRO Chairman’s medal for Science Excellence in 2019.
‘I am thrilled to be joining the dynamic and world-class CAT team to drive and grow the delivery and creation of innovative Genetic and Genomic solutions for the protection and improvement of productivity, efficiency and sustainability in aquaculture and related industries.’ – says Klara Verbyla.
Dr. Verbyla is passionate about the development and use of cutting-edge genetic technologies and data science to improve industry standards on productivity, secure a sustainable global food supply, and protect the earth’s natural resources.
“We are excited to welcome Klara to our team – she is a world-renowned expert in genomics and breeding in agriculture and brings extraordinary expertise to our company,” says John Buchanan, President and CEO. “Klara and CAT share similar values and ambition to provide client-focused and innovative solutions that support the environment, sustain the planet, and feed the world.”
The Center for Aquaculture Technologies (CAT) is a global, full-service, contract and internal R&D organization that is focused on the application of technologies to improve productivity, efficiency, and sustainability in the aquaculture industry. CAT is home to a unique combination of world-class scientists bringing together complementary expertise in fish health, nutrition, and genetics working in state-of-the-art facilities to deliver innovative, tailor-made solutions for organizations in the sector.