The objective of this research is to develop new methods for chromosome mapping in salmonid fishes including banding techniques using SINE sequences for chromosome identification, species- specific and chromosome-specific paint probes, and in situ hybridization using cosmid clones for localization of genes. Although there is an extensive linkage map for allozyme loci in salmonids, no single copy genes have been mapped to specific chromosomes. Construction of chromosome maps would greatly benefit fisheries research and enhance the usefulness of salamonid fishes as models for research in developmental genetics, ecological genetics, and toxicology. Accurate maps will also allow us to reconstruct chromosome evolution. Work on development of these methods will be done during my visit to University of Washington in the 1995-1996 academic year. The University of Washington is uniquely suited for this research because the School of Fisheries maintains excellent laboratories for research on salmonid fishes and expertise in the flow sorting of chromosomes and single copy in situ hybridization exists in the department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology. Dr. Phillips is developing collaborative projects with faculty members in the School of Fisheries on chromosome mapping and related projects. Interactive activities include teaching a graduate seminar in molecular systematics and giving guest lectures in the Molecular Techniques class.
