Amelia Ramage

Preserving genetic diversity and species resilience in the face of historical and ongoing environmental and human-driven threats.

Ancient DNA (aDNA) provides a unique window into the past, offering vital insights into how species have responded to environmental and human-driven changes over time. Amelia is a PhD researcher at ZSL’s Institute of Zoology, University College London, and the Natural History Museum, funded by the London NERC DTP. Her research focuses on using aDNA and population genomics to inform conservation strategies for the Endangered African wild dog (Lycaon pictus).

By extracting DNA from historical museum specimens, Amelia investigates how past population bottlenecks - driven by habitat loss, prey depletion, climate change, and disease - have shaped the species' vulnerability. Her work explores key genomic consequences, helping to assess long-term species’ resilience.