Rockfish to Resiliency: Marine Genomic Insights for Oceans & Human Health

The ocean is a source of endless mystery, sustaining life on Earth and inspiring generations of discovery. Within its depths, remarkable creatures hold clues not only to the resilience of marine ecosystems, but also to the health and longevity of humans. Yet, as pressures from climate change, overfishing, and pollution intensify, understanding how ocean life survives and adapts has never been more critical.

One extraordinary example is the rougheye rockfish, which can maintain healthy function for over 200 years. By unlocking the genetic secrets of rockfish and other resilient marine organisms, scientists are uncovering pathways that may reveal how some species live longer, adapt to changing environments, and maintain robust health. These genomic insights are reshaping our understanding of ocean biodiversity while offering surprising applications for human health and medicine.

At Gloucester Marine Genomics Institute (GMGI), researchers are harnessing cutting-edge genomic technologies to illuminate the hidden blueprints of marine life. This work not only drives forward new strategies for conservation, but also builds essential connections between ocean science and human well-being.

Join us for the Annual Byrnes Lecture, Rockfish to Resiliency: Marine Genomic Insights for Oceans & Human Health, and discover how decoding the ocean’s DNA can guide us toward healthier ecosystems and healthier lives.

Doors for this event open at 5:00pm, with the lecture beginning promptly at 5:30pm.

About our speakers:

Stephen Treaster is a scientist in the Marine Biomedical Discovery division at GMGI, leading a research program in comparative genomics of longevity. His goal is to find the genomic controls that set lifespan by comparing exceptionally long- and short-lived animals. He then models and tests those mechanisms to extend healthy aging in zebrafish. Just as some rockfish can live for two centuries while maintaining neuromuscular function and resisting cancer, these models will ultimately inform treatments to delay age-related diseases in people.

Dr. Strand is a scientist in the Healthy Oceans and Fisheries division at GMGI, where her research focuses on advancing conservation efforts and management practices by developing genomic tools and evaluating environmental resilience. Working with organisms ranging from oysters and corals to fish, her research identifies physiological and genomic markers of resilience that reveal how species cope with challenging and changing environments. These insights, along with innovative genomic tools, can be applied to strengthen conservation strategies.

This is GMGI's Annual Byrnes Lecture, honoring longtime GMGI and community supporter John Byrnes. As a resident of Cape Ann for over 20 years, he was an integral part of the community, providing advice and generous philanthropic support to GMGI and many other organizations.

Also check out other Health & Wellness events in Gloucester.