Benchmark Genetics invites researchers and breeding programs to compete for two awards and help create open-access genetic tools for their species. New competition offers the chance to win SNP array development for emerging aquaculture species!
A new aquaculture program can begin with a simple conviction: this species has potential! In a hatchery, that might mean years spent learning how to raise it. In a research program, it might begin with a question about what could help it thrive. Understanding the genetics behind traits such as growth and disease resistance, while maintaining genetic diversity and managing inbreeding, can help turn that potential into a breeding program built to last.
As part of its commitment to making genetics more accessible across aquaculture, Benchmark Genetics is proud to launch the Emerging Species Genetics Competition 2026, opening a new route into genomics for emerging aquaculture species. The competition gives research and breeding teams the chance to win SNP array development, helping them begin or advance their genomic journey.
The opportunity is open to eligible projects working with aquaculture species for which Benchmark Genetics does not yet offer genotyping tools. Benchmark Genetics invites teams to help shape a resource for their own program and for others working with the same species.
Two award categories are available:
- Emerging Species Award: SNP array development with up to 20,000 SNPs.
- Student and Early Career Researcher Award: SNP array development with up to 5,000 SNPs.
Each category may support one or more projects, with its total SNP allocation shared across the selected projects. The awards cover agreed array development activities, using participating teams’ samples, existing genetic data or SNP information.
The opportunity extends beyond the selected projects. Arrays developed through the competition will become open-access genetic tools, available to the wider aquaculture community through Benchmark Genetics’ genotyping services. A tool developed with one program can therefore become available to other researchers and breeding teams working with the same species. This is the idea behind shared progress: the work that helps one team move forward can also create opportunities for others.
For a student exploring a new research question, or a breeding program ready to take its next step, the competition offers an opportunity to help build that foundation. It starts with their species, their knowledge and their ambition, with the potential to support a wider community.
Apply by 15 November 2026 here.
Entry is free, and applications close at midnight at the end of that day, Norway time. Both award categories will be assessed by a judging panel based on written applications. Full eligibility criteria and terms are available through the application page.
Your species. Our genetics. Shared progress.
Eligibility and Terms & Conditions apply.
Please see the full Terms & Conditions for details: https://www.bmkgenetics.com/emerging-species-genetics-competition-2026/
For media enquiries:
Please contact Dr. Maria Nayfa, Business Development Manager, Genetics Services, Benchmark Genetics
maria.nayfa@bmkgenetics.com or +47 966 10 116
