Matt J. Thorstensen

Matt J. Thorstensen is a Research Fellow in the Department of Biological Sciences at the University of Manitoba. His research focuses on the genomics of wildlife, with particular emphasis on fish and marine mammals such as bowhead whales and narwhals. His work bridges fundamental biological inquiry and practical conservation applications, addressing how historical whaling practices and contemporary environmental challenges influence genetic diversity and adaptive potential in Arctic species.

Education:

• PhD in Biology, University of Manitoba (2021)
• MSc in Ecology, University of California, Davis (2018)
• BSc in Wildlife, Fish, and Conservation Biology, University of California, Davis (2016)

Research Interests:

• Genomic approaches to understanding wildlife adaptation
• Conservation genetics of marine mammals
• Impact of historical and present-day human activities on genetic diversity

Publications: His recent work examines genetic consequences of commercial whaling in Arctic species, highlighting critical insights for conservation strategies.