Brenda Bonett-Calzada | Population Genetics | Young Scientist Award

Mrs. Brenda Bonett-Calzada | Population Genetics | Young Scientist Award 

Student, at CICESE, Mexico.

Brenda Guadalupe Bonett Calzada is a Ph.D. candidate in Aquaculture Science at the Center for Scientific Research and Higher Education of Ensenada (CICESE). With a robust background in teaching and research, she has significant expertise in genetics and environmental impact assessments, focusing on aquaculture and fisheries. Her academic journey reflects a strong commitment to advancing the field of aquaculture through population genomics research on species such as the giant keyhole limpet.

Profile

ORCID

Education 

  • Doctor of Science in Aquaculture (2020-2024, in progress): CICESE. Thesis: “Population genomics of the giant macaw (Megathura crenulata) on the Baja California Peninsula.”
  • Master of Science in Aquaculture (2015-2017): CICESE. Thesis: “Genetic characterization of white shrimp Penaeus (Litopenaeus) vannamei in cultivation.”
  • Bachelor of Biotechnology in Aquaculture (2010-2015): Universidad Autónoma de Baja California (UABC). Thesis: “Larval ontogeny of Panopea globosa fed with Isochrysis sp. and Chaetoceros calcitrans cultivated with agricultural fertilizers.”

Professional Experience 

Brenda has served as a subject professor at UABC, teaching courses such as Mollusc Biotechnology and Support Crops. She has worked in aquaculture and fisheries consulting and conducted technical studies related to DNA extraction, drug resistance in tuberculosis patients, and environmental impact assessments for aquaculture permits. She has also assisted in guiding new master’s and doctoral students in thesis project development.

Research Interests 

Brenda’s research focuses on aquaculture genetics, particularly the population genomics of marine species like the giant keyhole limpet and white shrimp. She is also interested in biotechnology applications for sustainable aquaculture and the genetic diversity of cultured marine organisms.

Awards 

Brenda has been recognized for her scientific contributions, including second place at the 2nd Encuentro Estatal de Jóvenes Investigadores (2014). Her academic performance and dedication to research have earned her several accolades, including participation in key international symposia.

Publications 

Genetic Insights into the Giant Keyhole Limpet (Megathura crenulata): Complete Mitogenome, Phylogenetics, Phylogeography, and Historical Demography” by Bonett-Calzada et al. (2024) was published in Genes. This study focuses on unraveling genetic data of the giant keyhole limpet, Megathura crenulata, a marine species known for its unique keyhole-shaped shell.

Key Details of the Paper

  • Research Focus:
    • The study presents the complete mitochondrial genome (mitogenome) of Megathura crenulata.
    • It explores the phylogenetic relationships, phylogeographic patterns, and historical demography of this species.
    • The paper aims to understand the evolutionary history and geographical distribution of this limpet by analyzing genetic data.
  • Methods:
    • The researchers sequenced the complete mitogenome of Megathura crenulata.
    • They applied phylogenetic analyses to reconstruct evolutionary relationships with related species.
    • Phylogeographic analysis was performed to map the historical distribution of genetic variants across populations.
  • Significance:
    • The findings have implications for marine conservation, especially regarding the genetic diversity and adaptability of this species.
    • The research contributes to the broader understanding of how marine species adapt to environmental changes and geographic barriers.
  • Citations: The article has already been cited by five other articles, reflecting its growing relevance in the field of marine biology and evolutionary genetics.

Conclusion

Brenda Guadalupe Bonett Calzada demonstrates significant promise as a young scientist, with a strong academic foundation, impactful research contributions, and a clear commitment to advancing aquaculture science. Her research aligns well with contemporary needs in sustainable aquaculture and marine biology, making her an excellent candidate for the Research for Young Scientist Award. With a more extensive international research network and broader application of her findings, Brenda has the potential to significantly influence the future of marine resource management and aquaculture practices globally.