These genetic analyses are useful to biologists seeking to understand the population structure of native species. Fieldwork in Alaska often takes biologists to remote areas for prolonged periods. These biologists use floatplanes and helicopters for access to tent camps, and use radios to communicate with the Center and their families. Harsh environmental conditions and the extreme seasons of the Arctic often restrict the methods and timing of research projects. Different languages and customs of Native groups throughout the state also influence when, where, and how research is conducted.
Projects often involve cooperative efforts with Native peoples to study fish and wildlife resources.
The staff of the Alaska Biological Science Center includes research wildlife biologists, research fishery biologists, a research geneticist, a zoologist, a marine ecologist, a research statistician, a veterinarian, a research ecologist, biologists, and a support staff of biological technicians, statistical assistants, and laboratory technicians. Annually, the Center receives hundreds of hours of support from volunteers. A small administrative staff supports the research program.