Sarah Helyar

Dr. Sarah Helyar is a Senior Lecturer at the School of Biological Sciences within Queen's University Belfast, with a focus on marine and conservation genetics. Her research spans population genetics, environmental DNA (eDNA), and field-based genomics, particularly applied to marine species and aquatic food sustainability.

• Research Areas: Population genetics, marine species, eDNA, conservation genetics, fisheries management, and food safety.

Her recent work analyzes environmental and biological factors affecting shellfish production in Northern Ireland and evaluates PFAS legislation impacts on food sustainability. She contributes to food authenticity research through genomic tools.

• Scientific Awards:
  • Best Poster - QUB Faculty MHLS (2020)
  • Best student poster at British Ecological Society meeting (2019)
  • Nominated for Queen's University Belfast 'Team of the Year Award' (2017/18, 2020/21)

Her publications address marine biodiversity, genetic structuring in commercial species, and conservation strategies for endangered amphibians. She actively collaborates with international institutions on fisheries and environmental management projects.