Research Focus
Martha Lyke, Ph.D., is a population geneticist researching the genetics of the nonhuman primate colonies housed at the Southwest National Primate Research Center (SNPRC).
Nonhuman primates are closely related to humans and are therefore valuable as models of human disease and other health outcomes. Dr. Lyke is working to develop best practices to utilize genomic data to inform breeding strategies of these animal populations. Maintaining genetic diversity within the nonhuman primate colonies is crucial to the vitality of the populations and their viability as translational models of human health. Dr. Lyke earned her PhD in biological anthropology from the University of Texas at San Antonio, and joined SNPRC in 2021.
Inside the Lab
Working as a staff scientist in Dr. Shelley Cole’s lab, Dr. Lyke is responsible for curating nonhuman primate genetic and genomic sequencing data. An important goal of the Genomics and Colony Administration Component of the Southwest National Primate Research Center is a comprehensive genetic characterization of our nonhuman primates. They are working to develop the most cost effective yet comprehensive process by using a combination of genetic approaches, including whole genome sequencing, whole exome sequencing, genotype-by-sequencing, and genotype imputation. Dr. Lyke is also responsible for the analyses, documentation, and reporting of results.
Main Technologies and Methods Used
- DNA sequencing
- Whole genome sequencing
- Whole exome sequencing
- Genotype by sequencing