Bastien Llamas

Assoc. Prof. Bastien Llamas is an Honorary Associate Professor at The Australian National University's National Centre for Indigenous Genomics (NCIG) within the John Curtin School of Medical Research. He also holds roles as Honorary Research Associate at Telethon Kids Institute's Indigenous Genomics team, Deputy Director of the ARC Centre of Excellence for Australian Biodiversity and Heritage (CABAH), and Associate Professor/Group Leader in Molecular Anthropology at the University of Adelaide's Australian Centre for Ancient DNA (ACAD). His research focuses on ancient DNA analysis to explore human adaptation, genetic mechanisms, and host-microbiome interactions across diverse environments and cultures.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, University of Montreal (2003–2007)
• M.Sc. in Neurosciences, Université de Bordeaux (2000–2001)
• B.Sc. in Genetics and Evolution, Université Paris-Sud (1997–1999)
• Diploma of Higher Education, Université de Marne-la-Vallée (1994–1997)

Research Interests: Prof. Llamas investigates genetic and epigenetic adaptations in ancient populations and extinct species, particularly focusing on environmental and cultural stressors. His work integrates long-read sequencing and genome graphs to construct a global human pangenome reference, emphasizing Indigenous genetic diversity. Recent studies include analyzing trisomy disorders in ancient populations and tracing migration patterns through genetic data.

Key Contributions: His research has revealed insights into human migration routes during the Pleistocene, genetic impacts of environmental shifts, and the origins of Papuan migrations into Wallacea. He has pioneered methods for sex determination in ancient remains and optimized ancient DNA sequencing techniques.

Awards:

• ARC Future Fellow

Advisory & Collaborations: Supervises research students in ancient DNA methodologies and leads interdisciplinary projects like the 'Respecting the Gift' initiative empowering Indigenous communities in genomic medicine. Collaborates with institutions globally, including the University of Adelaide and CABAH.

Labs/Teams: Leads the Molecular Anthropology Group at ACAD and contributes to the Indigenous Genomics team at Telethon Kids Institute, focusing on ethically engaged genomic research with Indigenous communities.