Fernando Colchero

Fernando Colchero is an Associate Professor in the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science at the University of Southern Denmark (SDU), where he conducts research in statistical eco-demography. He is a key member of the CPop research group, focusing on demographic modeling in ecological and evolutionary contexts. His work integrates advanced statistical methods with biological questions to understand survival, fertility, and movement patterns in animal populations.

His research interests include:

• Bayesian Survival Trajectory Analysis (BaSTA)
• Age-structured stochastic population modeling
• Inference on animal movement using state-space and Markov Chain Resource Selection (MCRS) models
• Life history theory and aging in wild populations
• Conservation applications of demographic models

His recent publications reveal a strong focus on longevity, aging, and population dynamics across diverse taxa, including primates, orchids, marine mammals, and endangered species. The articles span conservation biology, ecological modeling, and evolutionary demography, often emphasizing the importance of age-specific data and the pitfalls of stage-structured approximations. His work increasingly bridges wild and captive populations, with applications for ex-situ conservation and species management.

He has received the Cozzarelli Prize (2016) from the National Academy of Sciences, recognizing outstanding scientific excellence and originality. His research has been supported by projects including NIH funding and collaborations with Species360 and the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International.

Colchero has supervised student projects and taught courses such as Mathematics for Biology, Mathematics and Statistics for Pharmacy, and Statistical Modelling. He is also active in peer review, editorial work, and public engagement, frequently presenting findings in international conferences and contributing to media discussions on animal longevity and conservation.