A-level students from QEII High School are investigating the wildlife living in the Isle of Man’s rivers, ponds and wetlands through a new environmental DNA (eDNA) research project.
‘Freshwater Forensics’ is a partnership between Manx National Heritage, Manx Wildlife Trust and QEII High School, supported by a grant from eDNA testing company Taxa Genomics.
Animals living in or passing through water leave behind tiny traces of DNA from skin cells, scales, mucus and other biological material. By collecting and analysing this environmental DNA, researchers can detect species that may otherwise be difficult to find.
Eleven A-level students will help shape the project by identifying research questions and sampling locations, before taking part in fieldwork and analysing the results.
Richard Seed, Environmental Development and Engagement Manager at Manx National Heritage, said:
“Students will develop practical scientific skills by helping to design and deliver a real ecological study, while also generating valuable baseline data for sites managed by Manx National Heritage and Manx Wildlife Trust.”
Graham Makepeace-Warne, Chief Executive Officer of Manx Wildlife Trust, said:
“The Isle of Man UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is an extraordinary living laboratory, and this exciting project gives students a unique opportunity to help us understand and protect our freshwater environments using innovative eDNA technology.”
Niamh Rowe, Scientist at Taxa Genomics, said:
“By giving students the opportunity to contribute to a real‑world scientific project, we hope to help inspire the next generation of Manx conservationists and scientists while collecting significant biodiversity data to support Manx National Heritage and the Manx Wildlife Trust in informing their future conservation decisions.”
Surveying will be undertaken at sites including Laxey Wheel, River Nebb, the Ballaugh Curragh, the Calf of Man, Glen Auldyn and Ballacosnahan.
Students intend to share their experience of the project at University College Isle of Man’s 2026 Research Festival. The festival, themed “Biosphere IOM”, will take place at the Villa Marina in October.
The resulting wildlife records are intended to be made available through the NBN Atlas, helping inform future conservation, habitat management and freshwater monitoring on the Isle of Man.
The project partners thank Taxa Genomics for providing eDNA testing and analysis in kind, alongside staff time to support training, interpretation and project guidance.