February 27, 2025
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Researchers continue to make remarkable progress in genome assembly using advanced techniques like Hi-C technology. By analyzing the three-dimensional organization of the genome, scientists can generate more accurate and complete assemblies, leading to better understanding of species’ genetics and evolution.
We are thrilled to announce the two recipients of the 2025 Genome Assembly Grant, showcasing innovative approaches and expanding applications for Hi-C technology in genome assembly:
Unveiling Snow Leopard Genetics: A Leap Forward in Conservation and Health
Grant Recipient: Leslie Lyons
Leslie Lyons, Professor of Comparative Medicine at Mizzou, will use 3D genomics to generate a high-quality, telomere-to-telomere (T2T) reference genome for the snow leopard.
Institution: University of Missouri
Project Title: Reference Genome of the Snow Leopard – deciphering adaptations and disease in the great cats
Project Overview: This project aims to develop a high-quality, telomere-to-telomere (T2T) reference genome for the snow leopard (Panthera uncia), one of the six great cats. The primary goal is to investigate the genetic basis of Multiple Ocular Coloboma (MOC), a congenital eye defect commonly affecting captive snow leopards48. By creating this advanced genome assembly, Dr. Lyons hope to identify genetic variants associated with MOC, potentially leading to the development of a genetic test to support breeding programs and conservation efforts for both captive and wild snow leopards.
The project’s success could significantly impact snow leopard conservation and captive breeding programs by helping to reduce the incidence of this debilitating eye condition. Additionally, the new T2T genome would allow for important comparisons with other felid species, potentially uncovering insights into the diverse phenotypic and physiological differences among great cats.
Deep Roots, Dynamic Genomes: Unravelling Genome Plasticity in Ancient Trees
Grant Recipient: Matthew Naish
Matthew Naish, Research Fellow at University of Cambridge, will utilize Arima Hi-C technology to generate chromosome-scale, gapless genomes of ancient oak trees, enabling the detection of structural variants and mapping of epigenetic changes to understand long-term adaptation and genome evolution
Institution: University of Cambridge
Project Title: Deep Roots, Dynamic Genomes: Unravelling Genome Plasticity in Ancient Trees
Project Overview: Genome plasticity – the ability of a genome to change – is fundamental to diversification and evolution. While short-lived plants like Arabidopsis have been extensively studied, extremely long-lived trees accumulate far more genome-wide changes over centuries. This extended lifespan provides a unique opportunity to uncover how both genetic and epigenetic mechanisms drive adaptation. This project focuses on ancient trees — often keystone species of cultural, ecological, and economic importance.
The lab will incorporate Arima Hi-C to assemble chromosome-scale genomes, detect structural variants, and map DNA methylation changes. This approach will also resolve heterozygosity, enabling accurate detection of structural variation between haplotypes, providing a transformative model for investigating long-term adaptation and illuminating new aspects of plant genome evolution, biodiversity, and resilience.
Congratulations to these brilliant researchers! All the hard work is still ahead, but we cannot wait to see the discoveries our genome assembly recipients make as they pursue their projects. Learn more about Arima technology and how 3D genomics can serve a critical role in your assemblies.
