DNA Detectives: Using DNA in the Environment to Study Fish and Wildlife

Presented by Dr. Andrea Schreier, Director of the UC Davis Genomic Variation Laboratory

Date: January 22, 2026

Time: Mixer 5 – 6 p.m., Lecture 6 – 7 p.m.

Location: TBD

Every organism leaves traces of its genetic identity behind—tiny fragments of DNA shed into water, soil, and air. Scientists can now collect and analyze these genetic clues, known as environmental DNA (or eDNA), to detect species without ever seeing or capturing them. In this talk, Dr. Andrea Schreier of UC Davis will reveal how her team uses eDNA to study fish and wildlife across California and beyond. From tracking endangered species and invasive invaders in the Bay-Delta to monitoring fish communities in restored wetlands, eDNA is transforming how we understand and manage aquatic ecosystems. Dr. Schreier will discuss how this technology works, what it can—and can’t—tell us, and how innovations like CRISPR-based detection tools are opening new frontiers in conservation genomics. Join us to explore how modern molecular techniques are helping scientists become true DNA detectives, uncovering hidden biodiversity in our changing world.

Register here

In-person event details

Doors open at 5:00 p.m. Presentation begins at 6:00 p.m.

Advance tickets are $10 through EventBrite and free for students with a valid student ID. Tickets at the door will be $15.

Refreshments and a no-host bar will be available from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m., followed by the lecture beginning at 6:00 p.m. in the Emerald Room at Sunnyside Restaurant & Lodge, 1850 W Lake Blvd, Tahoe City, CA 96145.

Enjoy dinner at Sunnyside before or after the presentation and receive 20% off your entire meal.
If you plan to dine during the presentation, please arrive early and place your order before it begins, as no orders will be taken once the presentation is underway. For more information call 775-881-7560 ext. 7566 or email tercinfo@ucdavis.edu.

Unable to make it in person? Please be sure to visit https://www.youtube.com/c/ucdavistahoe to view recordings of our Science Speaker Series.

We are excited to partner with Sunnyside Restaurant & Lodge as the location for this UC Davis TERC Fall Science Speaker lecture series to be held at Sunnyside Restaurant & Lodge in Tahoe City (directions). Free self-parking on-site and across the street.