Research Focus/Interests. My research focus is on improvement and effective use of genetic and reproduction resources in aquaculture. Research includes studies on DNA marker and color inheritance in ornamental (koi) carp Cyprinus carpio, and Nile Tilapia Oreochromis niloticus; crossbreeding and genetic sex regulation (YY male technology) in Nile Tilapia for improvement of commercially important traits such as growth; and, the development and use ultrasound imaging procedures for sex identification and ovarian reproductive assessment in Nile Tilapia, Channel Catfish Ictalurus punctatus, American Paddlefish Polyodon spathula, and other fish species.

Extension. As an extension agent, I am interested in (1) collaborating with other researchers and Extension personnel, businesses, and government and non-governmental organizations, to improve production of established (for example, Channel Catfish x Blue Catfish hybrid) and alternative aquaculture species (for example, Nile Tilapia); (2) collecting and analyzing sales and marketing data of established and emerging aquaculture products; (3) enabling informed decision-making for farmers, consumers, and other aquaculture stakeholders; and, (4) increasing participation and training of minorities and women, and underrepresented and underserved communities in local aquaculture.