Who We Are
The story of E. Z. Genomics began in the Martin Lab at Texas State University, where we—Bailey Ellis and Alex Zalmat—worked together on questions in population genetics, evolution, and conservation. Through that work, we recognized a need for population genetic expertise to support conservation research in Texas (and beyond). We founded E. Z. Genomics in 2026 to help meet that need, aiming to work with researchers and conservation professionals to understand genetic diversity, identify distinct populations, and evaluate the connections among them. Our goal is to make genomic approaches more accessible to the people studying and protecting biodiversity.
We support projects from study design and sample collection through laboratory work, data processing, and genetic analysis. Whether a research team needs guidance at the planning stage or specialized support with an existing project, we tailor our involvement to its questions, resources, and goals.
As biologists, we approach genomic data with the organisms and their environments in mind. We work closely with our collaborators to interpret findings in the context of population connectivity, evolutionary history, and conservation needs. Through rigorous analysis, transparent methods, and clear communication, we aim to produce research that advances scientific understanding and supports informed conservation decisions.
Two Biologists, One Vision
Bailey S. Ellis, M.S.
Co-founderBailey is a biologist whose research combines genomic and morphological approaches to understand variation within and among species. He earned his M.S. in Biology from Texas State University, where his thesis investigated population structure, genetic divergence, and hybridization in Alloberberis, a group of shrubs native to the southwestern United States and Mexico. His interests include evolutionary biology, species relationships, and the integration of genetic and morphological data. In his off time he enjoys visiting national parks, playing Dungeons & Dragons, and traveling.
Alexander S. Zalmat, Ph.D.
Co-founderAlex is a population geneticist whose research spans freshwater mussels, fishes, and plants. He earned his Ph.D. from Texas State University, where his dissertation investigated population genetic structure and reproductive timing in a threatened freshwater mussel system, alongside genomic divergence and introgression in a Louisiana Iris hybrid zone. His broader interests include genetic diversity, population connectivity, biogeography, hybridization, and conservation. Outside of his work, Alex enjoys fly fishing, rock climbing, and backpacking with his wife and three dogs.
Our Genomic Approach
We use restriction site-associated DNA sequencing (RAD-seq) to sample genetic variation across the genome. By sequencing a subset of genomic regions, we can identify thousands of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) without the expense of sequencing whole genomes for every individual. This approach is particularly useful for studying non-model organisms with limited genomic resources available.
If you already have generated sequencing data, we can assess its suitability for your research questions and adapt our analyses to the sequencing approach and data available. Whether starting with samples or an existing dataset, we tailor our methods to your study system, with careful attention to data quality, sampling design, and biological interpretation.
Let’s Talk Research
Have a project in mind? Get in touch with us to discuss your research questions and find out how we can help.