James Kijas

Dr. James Kijas is a Senior Principal Research Scientist and Research Group Leader in the Aquaculture Program at CSIRO Agriculture and Food, Australia. He has held key leadership roles in international genomics consortia and has built a distinguished career in animal genomics, with major contributions to sheep and aquatic species research.

His research focuses on linking genomic variation to phenotypic changes in animal populations. Key areas include:

• Atlantic salmon sex determination
• Functional biology of sexual maturation
• Genetic diversity and conservation
• Enhancement of applied breeding programs
• Genome-wide association studies (GWAS)
• Domestication and selection genomics

His work has been instrumental in developing genomic tools for livestock and aquaculture, including leading a project that sequenced nearly 1000 sheep genomes. He has held leadership roles such as Secretary of the International Sheep Genomics Consortium and President of the International Society of Animal Genetics (ISAG).

Dr. Kijas has received numerous accolades, including the CSIRO Chairman’s Medal in 2010. He serves as Associate Editor for Animal Genetics and has previously served on the editorial board of the Journal of Animal Science.

• CSIRO Chairman’s Medal (2010)
• President, International Society of Animal Genetics (2016–2019)
• Secretary, International Sheep Genomics Consortium (2012–2016)
• Divisional Award in Partnership Excellence (CSIRO, 2007)

He has advised and led multidisciplinary research teams and has secured principal investigator status on multiple research grants. His editorial and steering committee roles reflect his influence in shaping global animal genetics research. Dr. Kijas leads genomics activities across CSIRO’s aquaculture initiatives, working with diverse aquatic species to improve sustainability and productivity.