Photo: Courtesy of Center for Aquaculture Technologies
Samuel May has joined Center for Aquaculture Technologies (CAT) as its new Genetic Services Lead for the U.S. and Canada. To CAT, he brings deep scientific expertise and practical experience across coral research, salmon genetics, and selective breeding in aquaculture.
Reflecting its continued growth and commitment to innovative genetic improvement and strategic breeding program support, Center for Aquaculture Technologies (CAT) has appointed Samuel May as its new Genetic Services Lead for the U.S. and Canada.
May brings deep scientific expertise and practical experience across coral research, salmon genetics, and selective breeding in aquaculture. His journey into genetics began at university where a population genetics course sparked a passion that led to a Ph.D. in genetics and a role managing the USDA salmon selective breeding program in Maine. There, he focused on cryopreservation, trait optimization, and genetic diversity to improve breeding efficiency and sustainability.
At CAT, May is excited to apply his expertise in a fast-paced, solution-driven environment. “I wanted to move from academic theory to real-world impact,” he says. “CAT offered the opportunity to work across species, solve complex problems, and help clients make meaningful genetic gains.” He was also drawn to CAT’s collaborative culture and its commitment to innovation in aquaculture.
CAT is a global leader in aquaculture genetics, managing over 20 breeding programs across more than a dozen aquatic species. Leveraging a diverse portfolio of 50 plus genomic tools and deep expertise in genotyping, genome editing, advanced data analytics and quantitative breeding strategies, CAT delivers customized genetics solutions that drive measurable gains in performance, sustainability, and profitability.
“Bringing Sam on board strengthens our support for clients across North America,” remarks Klara Verbyla, CAT’s VP of Genetic Improvement. “His diverse experience enhances our ability to apply advanced genetic tools in practical settings, delivering real value to our clients.”
In his new role, Samuel May will manage selective breeding programs for clients across the U.S. and Canada, helping them implement new technologies, streamline operations, and make smarter data-driven breeding decisions.
“Genetics is one of the most powerful tools the industry has to tackle challenges like disease resistance, growth, and sustainability,” May adds. “By applying the right tools, we help producers raise healthier, more efficient fish that meet evolving market demands.”
CAT’s genetic solutions are grounded in practical outcomes—enabling producers to produce fish that grow efficiently, resist disease, and meet evolving market demands. As aquaculture continues to evolve and respond to environmental and production challenges, CAT remains at the forefront, equipping clients with science-based tools and the latest innovations in genetics and genome editing.
