Robert Jehle

Dr. Robert Jehle is a population biologist at the University of Salford's School of Science, Engineering & Environment, with over 90 publications spanning two decades focused on amphibian ecology, evolution, and conservation across global ecosystems. His research has significantly advanced understanding of amphibian population dynamics from Europe to the Amazon rainforest.

After completing his PhD in Zoology at the University of Vienna, Dr. Jehle held an EU Marie Curie post-doctoral fellowship at the University of Sheffield before joining the University of Salford in 2008. His work encompasses all three amphibian orders (anurans, urodeles, and caecilians), with additional research on tropical eels and Mesoamerican crocodiles.

His primary research interests include:

• Genetic diversity and conservation of amphibian populations
• Hybridization and speciation processes in amphibians
• Urban ecology and adaptation to human-modified landscapes
• Disease ecology, particularly regarding chytridiomycosis
• Evolutionary processes and life history traits
• Application of molecular techniques to conservation problems

Recent work (2021-2025) demonstrates a strong focus on practical conservation applications:

• Genetic management approaches for EU Nature Restoration Law implementation
• Development of minimally invasive sampling techniques for amphibian studies
• Assessment of Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) for maintaining genetic diversity
• Conservation of threatened amphibian populations through integrated habitat creation
• Investigation of host-pathogen dynamics in declining amphibian species

Dr. Jehle contributes to approximately 10 undergraduate and postgraduate modules annually, employing diverse teaching methods from large lectures to rainforest fieldtrips. He has served as an external examiner for courses at three academic institutions, reflecting his standing in the field of wildlife conservation education.