DNA barcoding: making every species count

The International Barcode of Life (iBOL) Project is building the global infrastructure for rapid, accurate and inexpensive species recognition using a DNA-based identification system.  iBOL’s primary mission is to assemble a comprehensive library of standardized DNA sequences (barcodes) as a reference resource for the research and management of biodiversity. A vital component of the iBOL enterprise is research into new protocols that are bringing down the barriers to DNA barcode recovery from the billions of type specimens stored in the world’s natural history museum collections. This analysis of museum specimens will play a crucial role in construction of the barcode reference library – accelerating species coverage, validating the assignment of taxonomic names and enhancing the impact of DNA barcoding in the many areas where society interacts with biodiversity – conservation, pest control, ecosystem monitoring, forensics, marketplace regulation and education.

Peter Freeman

Dr. Peter Freeman joined the International Barcode of Life (iBOL) Project in July 2010. Working closely with the Scientific Director, Dr. Paul Hebert, he is responsible for the operations of the iBOL Secretariat, including keeping stakeholders apprised of progress and building the participation of key international funders and research institutions.  Peter’s research background is in cereal chemistry and plant physiology, and he has extensive executive experience in agribusiness as well as in coordinating large international networks and consortia in genomics, proteomics, stem cell research and population health.