DNA based biodiversity analysis and monitoring

ZooLab is a research team focused on modern molecular approaches to biodiversity research. For more than a decade, we have been engaged in DNA barcoding, metabarcoding, and environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis, applying these methods to a broad range of organisms and habitats. We have extensive expertise in next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies, including Illumina and Oxford Nanopore Technologies (ONT), covering the full workflow from experimental design and library preparation to sequence data processing and interpretation.

Our research spans freshwater ecosystems ranging from springs and alpine lakes to large rivers, as well as terrestrial habitats. We investigate, among other topics, pollinator diversity, soil fauna, and other organismal groups, using molecular tools to improve the resolution of species identification and to better understand community composition, ecological interactions, and biodiversity change.

ZooLab represents a unique research team within Slovakia with this specific scientific profile. We serve as the national node of the International Barcode of Life initiative (iBOL), represent Slovakia within the European Reference Genome Atlas (ERGA), and actively participate in several European COST Actions focused on DNA-based approaches to biodiversity research. One of our long-term priorities is the development of a reference DNA barcode library for the Slovak fauna, providing a robust foundation for reliable molecular species identification and for the broader application of DNA-based methods in both fundamental and applied research.

We also actively transfer our methodological expertise to international partners. We provide training and hands-on methodological support to colleagues from research institutions abroad, particularly in DNA barcoding, metabarcoding, eDNA analysis, and the use of NGS technologies. Through these activities, we contribute not only to the development of our own research capacity, but also to the dissemination and standardisation of modern molecular approaches across the international scientific community.

A key component of our work is the integration of academic research with practical biodiversity assessment and conservation. We collaborate with the private sector, non-governmental organisations, and other stakeholders to implement molecular approaches in biodiversity monitoring and ecological status assessment. Our methods and research outputs are applied, for example, in Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA), EU LIFE projects, and other initiatives related to biodiversity conservation and management.

Training the next generation of researchers is another important part of ZooLab’s mission. The team includes PhD students whom we train in state-of-the-art scientific approaches, from molecular and sequencing methodologies to data analysis, interpretation of results, scientific publishing, and participation in international research projects. Particular emphasis is placed on independent scientific thinking, methodological rigour, and the ability to integrate technological innovation with relevant biological and ecological questions.

The team is built on scientific expertise, collaboration, and the integration of complementary skill sets. We place strong emphasis on open communication, mutual trust, responsibility for research outcomes, and scientific initiative among individual team members. Our ambition is not only to advance high-quality research in molecular biodiversity science, but also to develop and implement approaches with direct relevance to biodiversity research, monitoring, and conservation in Slovakia and within the broader European research landscape.