Adèle Mennerat

Adèle Mennerat is a Lecturer at the University of Picardie Jules Verne specializing in behavioral ecology, evolutionary ecology, and host-parasite interactions. Currently on research leave, she collaborates with Sigrunn Eliassen and Christian Jørgensen at the University of Bergen on extra-pair mating behavior and animal cooperation.

Education:

• Doctor in Evolution, Ecology, Genetic Resources and Paleontology, Montpellier II University (CNU 67 section)

Her research integrates molecular, ecological, and evolutionary approaches to investigate host defense mechanisms against parasites. Key foci include insect-parasitoid coevolution (Asobara tabida), pathogen transmission in avian social networks, and anthropogenic impacts on parasite virulence. She pioneered studies on avian self-medication through aromatic plant use in blue tit nests, revealing bacterial inhibition and fitness benefits.

Mennerat's recent publications (2009-2014) demonstrate consistent interdisciplinary work bridging field ornithology, aquaculture parasitology, and molecular ecology. Her salmon lice research exposes virulence-farming connections, while blue tit studies established chemical ecology principles in wild bird disease management. This body of work emphasizes eco-evolutionary dynamics across diverse host-parasite systems.

She maintains extensive international collaborations including Lucy Aplin and Ben Sheldon (University of Oxford), Arne Skorping and Olav Moberg (University of Bergen), Dieter Ebert (University of Basel), and the ESP Team at CEFE-CNRS. Her research involves field studies across Europe with strong institutional partnerships.

Mennerat is affiliated with BIPE/EDYSAN research groups and previously collaborated with CEFE-CNRS's ESP Team. Her current work at the University of Bergen centers on behavioral evolution within animal social systems, building on her expertise in host-parasite coevolution.