CENTER FOR AQUACULTURE TECHNOLOGIES WELCOMES SAM MAY, THE NEW GENETIC SERVICES LEAD FOR THE US AND CANADA

Reflecting its continued growth and commitment to innovative genetic improvement and strategic
breeding program support, Center for Aquaculture Technologies (CAT) is pleased to welcome
Samuel May as the new Genetic Services Lead for the US and Canada.

Sam 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, Sam 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,” says Klara
Verbyla, 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, Sam 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,” he says. “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.

About the Center for Aquaculture Technologies (CAT)
Center for Aquaculture Technologies (CAT) is at the forefront of genetic innovation in the
aquaculture industry. We deliver tailored genetics solutions that drive value, uphold sustainability
for our clients, and help them scale up. We offer a full range of genetic services, including an
integrated Next-Gen Breeding™ strategy that combines genome editing, genotyping, and selective
breeding to unlock the full potential of aquaculture.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Emma Crolla
Associate Marketing Director
ecrolla@aquatechcenter.com
+447901671831