ABC Staff
Dr Jess Small
Director Dr. Jessica Small has served as Director of the Aquaculture Genetics and Breeding Technology Center (ABC) since 2021. Since returning to VIMS as a postdoctoral research associate in 2008, she has held several leadership roles, including Research Coordinator, Assistant Director, and Associate Director. She earned her Ph.D. in Marine Science from VIMS in 2007 and her B.Sc. in Marine and Freshwater Biology from the University of New Hampshire in 2000. Her work focuses on advancing aquaculture genetics and breeding through research, innovation, and collaboration.
Dr Robin Varney
Shellfish Geneticist Robin brings expertise in molecular biology, genetics, and genomics to ABC’s research program, conducting quantitative genetic analyses that support and advance our oyster breeding efforts. Her work spans the collection and management of oyster family progeny test data to genotyping samples for genetic analysis. By integrating phenotypic and genomic data, Robin helps inform breeding decisions and guide ABC’s annual oyster spawning season.
Amanda Chesler Poole
Hatchery Operations Manager Amanda oversees ABC’s hatchery operations, coordinating oyster production to support the center’s breeding program and research projects. She previously worked as ABC’s algologist, bringing valuable experience in algal culture and hatchery science to her current role. Amanda also manages ABC’s Oyster Aquaculture Training (OAT) program, providing participants with hands-on experience and training to prepare them for careers in the aquaculture industry.
Shelley Katsuki
Research Coordinator Shelley has a longstanding interest in polyploid breeding and genetics, particularly the creation and propagation of tetraploid oysters. She supports ABC’s overall mission and daily operations, with a focus on specific, grant-funded research projects. She primarily facilitates externally funded projects at ABC and serves as a liaison between the hatchery, field operations, and principal investigators (PIs) who need biological material for collaborative projects conducted outside VIMS.
Nate Geyerhahn
ABC Broodstock manager Nate has been part of ABC since its inception in 1997 and oversees the center’s broodstock program. He manages ABC’s oyster broodstock at all of our various field sites and plays an important role in maintaining the lines that support the breeding program. He also coordinates the distribution of broodstock to Virginia’s aquaculture industry, helping make ABC’s oyster lines available to commercial hatcheries.
Healy Ealy-Whitfield
Field Specialist Healy coordinates ABC’s field research activities and helps manage the center’s oyster farms, equipment, and field gear. She plays an important role in keeping field operations organized and running smoothly, supporting research projects and ensuring the resources needed for fieldwork are ready when needed.
Libby Hoffeditz
Laboratory Specialist Libby supports ABC’s laboratory, hatchery, and field operations, contributing to a variety of research projects and daily activities across the center. She specializes in flow cytometry for oyster ploidy analysis and certification, and assists with training and troubleshooting. She also plays an active role in hatchery production and field research, while contributing to ABC’s outreach and communications efforts.
Kiley Ruffhead
Hatchery Technician Kiley supports ABC’s hatchery and nursery operations, helping care for oysters throughout their early stages of development. Her work contributes to the production and maintenance of oysters for ABC’s breeding program and research projects.