Dr Sarah Catalano
Biography
Dr Catalano is a Senior Research Scientist in the SARDI Molecular Sciences group, Affiliate Senior Lecturer at Flinders University and Affiliate Lecturer at the University of Adelaide. She has an extensive background in molecular science, marine parasitology, bioinformatics and fisheries science, and leads the Molecular Sciences Laboratory at SARDI.
Dr Catalano has exceptional technical knowledge and skills in a range of molecular techniques (like quantitative PCR, microbiomics, next generation sequencing library preparation and DNA barcoding and metabarcoding), and has contributed to the development and implementation of novel molecular approaches for marine species identifications, assessment and improved aquaculture productivity.
She works across all the Programs within the Aquatic Sciences division to provide innovative, applied solutions to key challenges using molecular technologies.
Research interests
- Using molecular tools to provide a robust measure of biomass and stock structure for key fisheries species
- Assessing the gut microbiome of important aquaculture species for improvements in health outcomes
- Understanding ecosystem dynamics through DNA-based dietary assessments of marine apex predators
- Informing environmental impact statements through metabarcoding of community fauna
- Circular economy and alternative, sustainable feed ingredients for the aquaculture industry
- Applying advances in molecular technologies to address key questions in fisheries, inland waters and aquaculture sectors
Qualifications
- PhD (Dean’s Commendation), 2014, University of Adelaide
- BSc Hons (1st class), 2009, University of Adelaide
- BSc, 2008, University of Adelaide
Research affiliations
- Affiliate Lecturer, Flinders University
- Affiliate Lecturer, The University of Adelaide
