Sang-Kyu Shin, Our Guest Ph.D. Student from Korea University, Seoul Made a Short Visit at MECOH

10/25/2023

Ph.D. student from the Lab of Biodiversity and Ecology, Korea University, Sang-Kyu Shin (申棋奎) visited MECOH lab from October 3rd to 17th with the goal of exchanging ideas and critical techniques. His background in insect taxonomy proved valuable may synergize with the expertise found in MECOH lab.

Sang-Kyu impressing the audience with his work during his Masters and Ph.D. studies titled "Taxonomy and Phylogeny Studies of East Asia ephenoptera and tipuloidea". Prof. Kozo Watanabe looks on from the background.

Sang-Kyu shared an overview of the research projects conducted in his taxonomy and ecology focused lab, with a strong focus on the study of insects, particularly mayflies and crane flies. Our guest discusses the use of molecular techniques, ecological studies, and taxonomic approaches within these research projects, shedding light into the challenges and opportunities faced in these research areas.

Sang Kyu-shin's presentation provides insights into the world of taxonomic and phylogenetic studies of insects, showcasing the importance of genetic analysis and morphological examination in understanding the diversity and classification of Mayflies and crane flies. The collaborative work within the lab and its dedication to taxonomy-based research are evident throughout the discussion, emphasizing the importance of expanding our knowledge of these insect species through multiple scientific methods.

The discussion wraps up with a mention of the potential issues facing the research, such as the need for more detailed findings, particularly in ecological studies, the possibility of collaboration with other research groups, and the nuance of advancing the field of taxonomy.

Sang-Kyu received training from Dr. Karen Judan Cruz on how to perform Double digest restriction-site associated DNA (ddRADseq)

During his two-week stay in Ehime, he seek to diversify his skills. Sang-Kyu received training from experts from MECOH in the field of molecular biology and bioinformatics. He focused on crane fly specimens gathered from Busan, South Korea, and received training in ddRAD library preparation, consisting of genomic DNA extraction, restriction enzyme digestion, adapter ligation, PCR amplification, and size selection for sequencing, guided by our very own JSPS Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Dr. Karen.

Apart from that, Sang-Kyu received training on bulk community extraction and clean up of libraries for DNA metabarcoding with Dan Joseph Logronio, MECOH's Ph.D. student.

Taxonomy wouldn't be the same without some fieldwork! So, Sang-Kyu along with Dan made the trip to the Ishite River in Ehime Prefecture to study the ecology of the local fauna.

During the fieldwork. Dan received valuable technical advice from our guest Sang-Kyu on macrobenthic invertebrate sampling, environmental assessment for bulk community sampling of macroinvertebrates, and larvae identification to name a few.