Genetics firm selects Smedley
Xelect, the specialist genetic support company, has hired Dr Marie Smedley as its new Breeding Programme Manager.
Marie, who was previously a post-doctoral researcher at Stirling’s Institute of Aquaculture, where she specialised in triploid salmon research, will liaise closely with Xelect’s clients, coordinate their data and deliver the outputs of the firm’s genetic analysis service.
The St Andrews-based company provides breeding programme management service for several large aquaculture breeding companies – including Selonda and New Zealand King Salmon.
Dr Tom Ashton, co-founder and Operations Director at Xelect, told Fish Farming Expert: “Marie’s role will be to visit them, develop a detailed understanding of their processes, and then assist them in implementing the decisions resulting from the genotyping and quantitative genetics calculations performed by our team.”
“We are delighted to have Marie join our team. She will play a vital role in the interface between our expert scientific staff and our aquaculture customers worldwide. Marie has a PhD from the world-renowned Institute of Aquaculture at University of Stirling, and a strong background in salmonid biology and the salmon farming industry,” he added.
Only last month Xelect completed the move into private laboratories and offices in St Andrews, having previously been located within incubator space at the University of St Andrews.
“The new facility is equipped with a modern molecular biology laboratory and open plan office space for our growing team. The additional security and flexibility of our new laboratory is allowing us to earn ISO17024 accreditation for our growing range of lab services,” said Tom.
