The primary objective of this travel grant was for the student to receive training in analysing RNA-seq data, from experts in aquaculture bioinformatics, to enable him to analyse a transcriptome dataset for Yellowtail Kingfish. The analysis of RNA-seq data requires the use of specific software tools, access to a powerful computer server or server cluster, and in particular specialised knowledge.

By working with NOFIMA staff, the student had access to all of these, and allowed him to successfully constructed a full transcriptome using data from 30 Yellowtail Kingfish. He was able to identify over 800 genes involved in fatty acid metabolism, transport and deposition, as well as differential expression patterns for each of these genes.