When Dr. Kari Morfeld began giving the visiting ranchers Cody and Lorin Catalena a tour of her work on a client ranch, she didn't realize that a dream was about to become reality. Drawn to Dr. Morfeld's passion and impressed by her 20+ years of experience, the Catalenas invited Dr. Morfeld over for a meal to hear more about her years spent in Africa studying reproductive physiology for exotic species. When Dr. Morfeld mentioned the need for cloning in the exotics industry, the Catalenas were all ears. They had considered the future of cloning's role for their own exotics operation, and the prospect of taking part in an innovation that could empower people to protect their investments was an exciting opportunity. Dr. Morfeld and Catalena Ranch decided to form a partnership bridged by their common care for animals and innovation. Within weeks, CloneWild was born.
Director and Reproductive Physiologist
Dr. Morfeld thrives on finding innovative solutions that align with the needs of ranchers and zoos. A renowned reproductive physiologist, she leads the CloneWild team with a passion for translating scientific breakthroughs into practical solutions. With a Ph.D. from George Mason University in collaboration with the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, Dr. Morfeld has conducted groundbreaking research in elephant reproduction, health, and welfare. She also has spent years in Africa studying reproduction on cape buffalo, kudu, sable, impala, elephant, giraffe, and cheetah. Her extensive work spans reproductive physiology, assisted reproduction technologies, and conservation biology, making her the ideal leader to guide efforts in increasing genetic diversity across ranches in Texas.
With advanced training in reproductive physiology and biotechnology, the lead cloning and embryology technician at CloneWild holds a Ph.D. in Animal Sciences, specializing in epigenomics and embryonic development. Postdoctoral work at São Paulo State University and the University of Florida focused on understanding how early developmental conditions in embryos influence pregnancy success, particularly in ruminants. This research resulted in numerous publications including studies on the impact of dietary interventions on embryo viability and the epigenetic regulation of gene expression.
CloneWild’s cloning technique expert and consultant holds a Ph.D. in Animal Sciences, with a focus on nuclear transfer and cloning technologies. Decades of experience has played a pivotal role in advancing cloning methodologies through research at leading institutions such as São Paulo State University. Contributions have been integral to improving the success of somatic cell nuclear transfer in cattle, a foundation for cloning wildlife species. The consultant’s work, published in numerous peer-reviewed journals, includes studies on epigenetic regulation and embryo development.
