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Cecile AneView profile

Professor

• Statistical Phylogenetics
• Molecular Evolution
• Trait Evolution
• +7 more

Cécile Ané is a Professor in the Department of Statistics and an affiliate of the Department of Botany at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She serves as Director of the Statistical Consulting Group and is a member of several interdisciplinary initiatives including the Institute for Foundations of Data Science, the quantitative biology initiative (QBI), the Genomic Sciences training program (GSTP), and Wisconsin Evolution. As an H. I. Romnes Faculty Fellow, she has made significant contributions to statistical methods for evolutionary biology. PhD in Probability from University of Toulouse, France (2000) Professor Ané's research focuses on statistical inference for molecular evolution and trait evolution, utilizing graphical models with stochastic processes (discrete Markov processes or continuous diffusions). She develops tools for model selection, Bayesian inference, and creates computationally feasible models for big data applications. Her work spans various biological domains through statistical consulting across campus, including ecology, food science, and veterinary science. Ané is particularly known for her contributions to phylogenetic network methodology and software development. Her recent publications demonstrate a strong focus on phylogenetic networks, trait evolution along networks, and methodological advances in statistical phylogenetics. The work spans theoretical developments in network identifiability and practical applications in evolutionary biology, showing how her statistical innovations directly impact biological understanding. Her research group has made substantial contributions to the JuliaPhylo ecosystem, creating open-source software that has been widely adopted in the field. H. I. Romnes Faculty Fellow Open Hall of Fame inductee for JuliaPhylo ecosystem Publisher's award for Excellence in Systematic Research 2023 Margaret Menzel Award (awarded to her student Lauren Frankel) Professor Ané actively mentors students and has taught numerous courses including Statistical Methods for Bioscience, Statistical Phylogenetics, and Computing Tools for Data Analytics. She directs the Statistical Consulting Group, providing statistical expertise across campus. Her research group emphasizes valuing and supporting each individual to reach their full potential, aligning with diversity statements from both the Botany and Statistics departments. Ané is a strong advocate for open-source software in scientific research, believing it enables community collaboration and accelerates scientific discovery.

• Phylogenetics
• Odonata Research
• Visual System Evolution
• +2 more

Seth Bybee is a Professor in the Department of Biology within the College of Life Sciences at Brigham Young University. His research focuses on phylogenetics, Odonata (dragonfly) evolution, and visual system evolution. He teaches courses in General Biology, Entomology, and Evolution. Education: Research Fellow in Phylogenetic Systematics at Université de Montpellier, Institute des Science de l’Evolution (2020) Postdoctoral Researcher in Phylogenomics and Vision transcriptomes at Brigham Young University (2012) Postdoctoral Researcher in Behavioral Ecology and Insect Vision at University of California-Irvine (2009) PhD in Phylogenetic Systematics (Dragonfly Evolution) from University of Florida (2008) B.S. in Conservation Biology from Brigham Young University (2004) Research Interests: Professor Bybee's research spans evolutionary biology and entomology, with a focus on the phylogenetics of Odonata (dragonflies and damselflies) and the evolution of visual systems. His work integrates molecular, morphological, and behavioral data to understand the evolutionary history and adaptations of insects, especially in visual ecology. Scientific Awards: No scientific awards were listed in the provided information. Advising and Grants: The source text does not provide specific information about students advised or grants received. Research Lab: Professor Bybee leads the Bybee Lab (bybeelab.byu.edu), which conducts research in evolutionary biology and entomology.

Joseph V. McHughView profile

Professor

• Coleoptera systematics
• Insect taxonomy
• Insect phylogeny
• +3 more

Joseph V. McHugh is the Herbert H. and Jean A. Ross Memorial Distinguished Professor of Insect Systematics and Evolutionary Biology in the Department of Entomology , College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences , University of Georgia . He also serves as Curator of the Collection of Arthropods at the Georgia Museum of Natural History and holds faculty appointments in the Integrated Life Sciences Program . Education B.S. in Entomology, Cornell University (1984) M.S. in Evolutionary Biology, University of Connecticut (1987) Ph.D. in Insect Systematics, Cornell University (1995) Research Interests McHugh’s research centers on Coleoptera systematics , integrating taxonomy, morphology, phylogeny, and evolutionary biology to understand the diversity and natural history of beetles. His lab focuses on: Discovery and description of new beetle species, especially poorly known taxa Phylogenetic reconstruction and classification of Coleoptera Contributions to fundamental biology through morphological and ecological studies Conservation implications of saproxylic beetle communities in forest ecosystems Scientific Awards & Honors Herbert H. and Jean A. Ross Memorial Distinguished Professorship Past President, The Coleopterists Society (2007–2008) Past Chair, Morphology and Systematics Section, Entomological Society of America (2000–2001) Past President, Sigma Xi Scientific Research Society, UGA Chapter (1999–2000) Teaching & Mentorship McHugh teaches advanced courses in Insect Taxonomy (ENTO 8010/8010L) and Phylogenetics, Systematics and Evolution (ENTO 8050). He has advised numerous graduate students and post-doctoral researchers, though specific names are not listed in the provided text. Affiliations & Service Editor, Vaurie Monograph Series , The Coleopterists Society Former Co-Editor, Arthropod Systematics and Phylogeny (2015–2021) Faculty Adviser, H.O. Lund Club, University of Georgia (1998–2019) Lab & Collections McHugh directs the McHugh Lab, which conducts integrative research on beetle systematics, and oversees the University of Georgia’s Collection of Arthropods , a globally significant resource for entomological research and education.

Martina PavlekView profile

Researcher

• Evolutionary Biology
• Molecular Biology
• Genomics
• +5 more

Martina Pavlek is a Research Associate at the Ruđer Bošković Institute in Croatia, affiliated with the Division of Molecular Biology and the Laboratory of non-coding DNA. Her work focuses on cave-dwelling arachnids, evolutionary genetics, and biodiversity conservation, with leadership roles in projects like Genomes in the Dark and the Adris Foundation project on cave spiders . She contributes to the European Reference Genome Atlas (ERGA) and collaborates internationally. B.Sc. in Ecology from the University of Zagreb (2000–2006) Ph.D. in Molecular Biosciences from the University of Osijek/Dubrovnik and Ruđer Bošković Institute (2010–2015) Her research integrates phylogenetics, biogeography, and genomics to study subterranean adaptation mechanisms. Recent work includes 5S rRNA gene organization in beetles and biogeographic patterns in cave spiders. She has authored 20+ publications, including in Cladistics , Global Ecology and Biogeography , and Trends in Ecology & Evolution . Scientific accolades include multiple awards from the Systematics Association and European Commission. She mentors students like Nikola Pischiutta and collaborates with researchers such as Miquel Arnedo and Stefano Mammola. Current projects like ERGA Croatia and Genomes in the Dark highlight her commitment to genomic biodiversity initiatives.

Helena BilandžijaView profile

Research Fellow

• Evolutionary Developmental Biology
• Eco-Evo-Devo Adaptive Evolution
• Cave Biology
• +3 more

Helena Bilandžija is a Senior Research Fellow at the Ruđer Bošković Institute in Zagreb, Croatia, specializing in Evolutionary Developmental Biology and Subterranean Ecology . Her work bridges Phenotypic Plasticity and Genetic Assimilation in cave organisms. Education: PhD in Biology (2007–2013), Ruđer Bošković Institute & University of Osijek Postdoc (2015–2017), University of Maryland BSc in Biology-Ecology (1999–2005), University of Zagreb Research Themes: Evolution of albinism via melanin pathway defects Role of catecholaminergic systems in cave adaptation Conservation of subterranean species like Congeria bivalves Epigenetic mechanisms in phenotypic plasticity Phylogeography of Dinaric Karst endemics Comparative transcriptomics across cave and surface species Grants: 2019–2024: €1M TTPP Grant for 'Evolution in the Dark' 2014–2017: €118k NEWFELPRO Postdoctoral Grant Scientific Awards: NEWFELPRO Fellowship (2014–2017) EMBO Short-Term Fellowship (2014) L'Oréal-UNESCO 'For Women in Science' Fellowship (2013) Best Poster at 21st International Conference on Subterranean Biology (2012) Her research spans Cavefish (Astyanax mexicanus) , Dinaric Karst Bivalves , and Isopod Crustaceans , with a focus on Genetic Adaptation , Environmental DNA , and Conservation of Subterranean Ecosystems . She collaborates with teams across Europe and North America, maintaining Cave and Surface Invertebrate Facilities for experimental studies.

Henrik KrehenwinkelView profile

Professor

• Environmental Genomics
• Ecology
• Evolutionary Biology
• +4 more

Henrik Krehenwinkel is a Full Professor (W3) in the Department of Biogeography at the University of Trier , Germany. His research integrates genomic tools with field and lab experiments to study biological responses to global environmental change , focusing on arthropod communities in Europe and Pacific islands, particularly Hawaii. Employment history: Full Professor at Trier (2022–present), Assistant Professor (2018–2022), Postdoctoral Researcher at UC Berkeley (2015–2018), and Max Planck Institute (2014). Education: PhD in Evolutionary Genetics (2013), Diploma in Biology (2009) from Ruhr University Bochum, and studies in Molecular Ecology at IISc Bangalore (2008). Research Interests center on evolutionary adaptation , ecological community dynamics , and environmental DNA (eDNA) applications . Key project themes include retrospective biodiversity analysis , rapid field detection tools , agricultural pest monitoring , and eco-evolutionary responses of metaorganisms . His lab also investigates extreme sexual selection in spiders and invasive species biosecurity . Publications highlight genomic approaches to biodiversity monitoring, including eDNA from archived herbaria , molecular gut content analysis , and third-generation sequencing for taxonomy . Awards include the Konrad Thaler Dissertation Prize (2016), DFG Postdoctoral Fellowship (2015–2017), and summa cum laude distinctions. Teaching includes courses on Molecular Biogeography , Tropical Biodiversity Excursions (India/Hawaii), and Biology of Arachnids/Fishes . He leads environmental specimen bank projects and develops user-friendly eDNA detection systems for agricultural applications.

Heike SträuberView profile

Researcher

• Anaerobic fermentation processes
• Biorefinery processes
• Green chemicals production
• +7 more

Dr. Heike Sträuber is a Senior Scientist in the Department of Microbial Biotechnology at the Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ (UFZ) in Leipzig, Germany. She leads research in the Working Group Microbiology of Anaerobic Systems, with additional collaboration with the Deutsches Biomasseforschungszentrum (DBFZ). Her work focuses on developing and analyzing anaerobic fermentation processes and their integration into biorefinery concepts for sustainable production of green chemicals. Dr. Sträuber earned her MSc in Biochemistry from the University of Leipzig (1992-1997) and completed her PhD at the Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ and University of Leipzig (1997-2001). Her academic journey includes postdoctoral positions at SIAB – Saxon Institute for Applied Biotechnology (2005) and UFZ (2002-2003), followed by research fellowships at UFZ in the Department of Bioenergy (2010-2014) and Research Group Flow Cytometry (2007-2009). Dr. Sträuber's research focuses on developing and analyzing anaerobic fermentation processes for the production of valuable green chemicals such as carboxylates, hydrogen, and biomethane. Her work specifically targets the conversion of organic agro-industrial waste, plant material, and gaseous substrates into useful products. A significant achievement is the development of the CAPRAFERM® process for producing medium-chain carboxylates from complex biomass, which has potential applications in future biorefineries. She also investigates how carboxylic acids can be produced alongside biogas or biomethane in existing biogas plants, working in close cooperation with the Biochemical Conversion and Biorefineries departments of the DBFZ. Her research methodology combines process engineering with microbial ecology to understand and optimize anaerobic fermentation systems through systematic material and energy flow analyses. Her extensive publication record demonstrates a focused research trajectory centered on chain elongation processes, microbial community dynamics in anaerobic systems, and process optimization for carboxylate production. The research spans fundamental microbial ecology, process engineering, and systems analysis, with increasing integration of machine learning approaches for predicting process performance. Her work addresses critical challenges in sustainable bioproduction, including feedstock utilization, process stability, and integration with existing infrastructure. Dr. Sträuber has been actively involved in several research projects including CapUp, Cell4Chem, PaplGas2, and AcMp, demonstrating her engagement with both fundamental and applied research questions. Her collaborative approach extends to working with both academic and industrial partners to translate laboratory findings into practical applications for sustainable chemical production. Based at the UFZ in Leipzig, Dr. Sträuber contributes to Germany's research infrastructure in sustainable biotechnology and bioeconomy. Her work bridges fundamental microbial research with practical applications, addressing critical challenges in sustainable chemical production including feedstock utilization, process stability, and integration with existing infrastructure. Through her research, she contributes to the development of circular economy approaches that convert waste streams into valuable products, supporting the transition toward more sustainable industrial processes.

• Zoology
• Entomology
• Taxonomy
• +2 more

Dr. Ana Mitrovski Bogdanović is a Teaching Assistant at the Faculty of Science, University of Kragujevac, with a PhD in Biology since 2012. Her research focuses on Zoology , particularly within Entomology and Taxonomy . Current affiliation: Faculty of Science, University of Kragujevac Academic rank: Teaching Assistant Her work involves species discrimination using geometric morphometrics and molecular markers , with 25 total publications including 9 Thomson-indexed papers. She has contributed to 3 national and 2 international scientific projects. Research trends from her publications include systematics of parasitoid wasps (Aphidiinae), analysis of sexual dimorphism and intraspecific variation in insects, and integration of morphometric and molecular approaches for species delineation. Dr. Mitrovski Bogdanović's academic profile demonstrates expertise in Zoology with specific focus on Hymenoptera taxonomy and morphological variation studies.

• Plant Morphology
• Plant Systematics
• Plant Phylogeny
• +2 more

Dr. Milan Stanković serves as a Lecturer at the Department of Biology within the Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics at the University of Kragujevac. Holding a Doctorate in Biological Sciences since 2012, he has established himself as a prominent researcher in plant sciences with 88 bibliographic units and 30 scientific papers (27 published in ISI-listed journals) to his credit. His research is supported by participation in two national scientific projects and one international project, demonstrating his active engagement in the scientific community. Dr. Stanković's research focuses on plant morphology, systematics, and phylogeny, with particular emphasis on Balkan flora. His work encompasses detailed morphological analyses of plant structures, taxonomic revisions of various plant genera, and molecular phylogenetic studies that illuminate evolutionary relationships among plant species. He has conducted extensive field research across the Balkan Peninsula, documenting plant biodiversity and investigating adaptation mechanisms in different ecological zones including alpine environments and endemic habitats. Analysis of his publication record reveals a consistent research trajectory focused on Balkan plant diversity. His recent work shows increasing integration of molecular techniques with traditional morphological approaches, reflecting current trends in systematic botany. A significant portion of his research addresses conservation concerns, particularly regarding endemic and threatened plant species in Serbia and neighboring regions. His studies often combine field observations with laboratory analyses of plant structures at microscopic levels. Dr. Stanković has participated in multiple research projects related to botanical studies, including those connected to the Botanical Garden in Kragujevac. His collaborative work extends to international projects that examine plant biodiversity across broader geographical contexts. His research contributes significantly to the understanding of Balkan flora and provides valuable data for conservation efforts in the region.

• Evolutionary Biology
• Entomology
• Arthropod Anatomy
• +4 more

Dr. Margarita Yavorskaya serves as Assistant Professor in the Department of Evolutionary Biology of Invertebrates at the Institute of Evolution and Ecology, Faculty of Science, University of Tübingen since 2020, following a Postdoctoral position at Ludwig Maximillian University Munich (2018-2020). Her academic credentials include: Ph.D. in Zoology, Friedrich Schiller University Jena (2014-2018): "Evolution of head structures in Coleoptera with special emphasis on the feeding apparatus and miniaturized forms" Diploma in Zoology, Biological Faculty of Lomonosov State University (2009-2014): "Mouthparts of hooded beetles (Coleoptera: Corylophidae) with regards to miniaturization" Her research centers on evolutionary morphology of arthropods , with particular focus on size-shape evolution and miniaturization effects in invertebrates. Key investigations encompass cephalic structure evolution in Coleoptera, feeding preference adaptations in beetle larvae/adults, and anatomical studies of minute crustaceans (Chydoridae). She integrates advanced methodologies including confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM), scanning/transmission electron microscopy (SEM/TEM), and 3D reconstruction from histological sections and MicroCT datasets to analyze morphological adaptations at microscopic scales. Publication analysis (2017-2023) reveals consistent specialization in beetle morphology, particularly examining head anatomy evolution across diverse families (Ptiliidae, Micromalthidae, Staphylinidae) and miniaturization constraints. Her work bridges paleontological assessments of early beetles (e.g., Coleopsis archaica) with contemporary studies of commensal adaptations (Platypsyllus castoris) and structural diversity in leaf-litter predators, demonstrating methodological innovation through Reflectance Transformation Imaging and 3D reconstruction techniques. No scientific awards were documented in the source material. Dr. Yavorskaya teaches Zoology (Bio122), Microscopic Imaging and 3D Reconstruction (Bio-3187), and Micro- & Macroevolution courses, though specific student advisement or grant details remain unreported. Her research contributes to the "Competence network Biomimetics" and "Colourful Meadow" Initiative through morphological analyses with potential biomimetic applications. She operates within the Department of Evolutionary Biology of Invertebrates utilizing specialized microscopy facilities for investigations into arthropod miniaturization, collaborating on projects examining structural adaptations across evolutionary timescales from fossil lineages to contemporary micro-crustaceans.

• Agronomy and Crop Science
• Insect Science
• Ecological Modeling
• +3 more

IGNACIO JAVIER MARTIN SANZ is a Professor at Universidad Politécnica de Madrid (UPM). He is a member of the R&D+i Center for Biodiversity Conservation and Sustainable Development (CBDS) and the Plant & Animal Ecology Lab (PAELLA) , where he contributes to understanding ecological processes and sustainable resource management. Research Interests His research spans a multidisciplinary spectrum that includes: Agronomy and Crop Science Insect Science and Entomology Ecological Modeling and Systems Ecology Evolutionary Biology, Behavior and Systematics These themes converge in the development of models and empirical studies aimed at conserving biodiversity and optimizing agricultural practices. Research Groups & Labs He actively collaborates within the Plant & Animal Ecology Lab (PAELLA) , a research group focused on integrative approaches to plant–animal interactions and ecosystem functioning. Contact Email: ignacio.martin@upm.es

Marin Talbot BrewerView profile

Professor

• Plant Pathology
• Mycology
• Fungal Evolution
• +4 more

Marin Talbot Brewer serves as the Department Head and William Terrell Distinguished Professor in the Department of Plant Pathology within the College of Agricultural & Environmental Sciences at the University of Georgia. Her leadership extends across academic, research, and administrative domains with a distinguished career trajectory from Assistant Professor (2011) to her current distinguished professorship (2022-present). Dr. Brewer's educational background includes a Ph.D. in Plant Pathology and Plant-Microbe Biology from Cornell University (2011), an M.S. in Plant, Soil, and Environmental Sciences from the University of Maine (2003), and a B.S. in Biology from the University of Cincinnati (1998). Her research program focuses on the evolution and diversity of plant-pathogenic fungi, with particular emphasis on understanding the genetic basis of emerging fungal threats to plants and people. The Brewer Mycology Lab employs population genetics, population genomics, comparative genomics, and molecular phylogenetics to investigate evolutionary processes that contribute to population-level diversity, species formation, and diversification. Key research areas include the genetic basis for differences in pathogenicity and virulence, how agriculture shapes fungal population structure, phylogeography, fungal mating systems, and solving epidemiological problems including sources of inoculum and evolution of fungicide resistance. Recent work has concentrated on azole resistance in the human pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus in environmental settings. Analysis of Dr. Brewer's recent publications reveals a strong focus on antifungal resistance mechanisms, particularly in Aspergillus fumigatus , with significant contributions to understanding the agricultural origins of clinical resistance. Her work bridges plant pathology and medical mycology, demonstrating how agricultural fungicide use impacts resistance development in human pathogens. Additional research examines emerging plant diseases including gummy stem blight in cucurbits, target spot in cotton, tar spot in corn, and Exobasidium leaf spot in blueberries. Student Career Success Influencer Award (2024) William Terrell Distinguished Professorship (2022) W.H. Weston Award for Excellence in Teaching (2022) DW Brooks Award for Excellence in Teaching (2021) CAES Outstanding Faculty Mentor Award (2019) Dr. Brewer actively mentors graduate students and has secured substantial funding for her research, including USDA NIFA SCRI grants like "SAM: Sustainable Anthracnose Management for Watermelon and Cucumber Growers in the Eastern U.S." Her lab has received funding from diverse sources including USDA NIFA, CDC, Cotton Incorporated, Peanut Foundation, and UGA internal grants. Current research projects investigate population genomics of fungicide resistance in Colletotrichum species and azole resistance in Aspergillus fumigatus across agricultural environments. The Brewer Mycology Lab maintains active collaborations across institutions and disciplines, with research extending from fundamental fungal evolutionary biology to practical disease management solutions for agricultural producers. The lab's work on environmental reservoirs of antifungal resistance has significant implications for both agricultural and clinical settings.

• Bacteriophage therapy
• Antimicrobial resistance
• One Health
• +6 more

Rob Lavigne serves as Full Professor and Department Head of Animal and Human (A2H) at KU Leuven's Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, where he leads research at the intersection of virology, antimicrobial resistance, and One Health. His affiliations span the Leuven One Health Institute, KU Leuven Plant Institute, BioAsyst Division, and the International Committee on Taxonomy of Viruses (ICTV) Executive Committee, reflecting his integrated approach to human, animal, and environmental health challenges. Lavigne's research program pioneers bacteriophage-based solutions for multidrug-resistant infections across clinical and agricultural settings. His laboratory investigates phage-antibiotic synergies against pathogens like Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus , develops phage biocontrol strategies for crop diseases (e.g., bacterial cancer in cherry trees), and explores structural and functional annotation of phage proteins using multi-omics and machine learning. Key innovations include engineered phage therapies for orthopedic infections, synthetic microbial communities for strawberry pest resistance, and novel approaches to combat hidradenitis suppurativa through personalized phage treatment. Analysis of his 2025 publications reveals a strong translational focus, with 60% addressing clinical applications of phage therapy for biofilm-associated infections. His work demonstrates consistent integration of fundamental virology (phage genomics, taxonomy) with practical solutions for antimicrobial resistance, particularly through collaborations with medical centers and agricultural institutes. Recurring themes include host-pathogen coevolution, multi-omics characterization of phage-host interactions, and development of phage-derived antimicrobials like lysins and small RNAs. Lavigne actively mentors doctoral candidates including Wicke, L. (PhD on phage-derived small RNAs) and secures major research funding as Principal Investigator for projects including TARDIS (2025-2030) combating bacterial diseases, RESILIENCE FPA (2024-2027) for medical countermeasures, and ULTiMatE-MS (2024-2030) for high-throughput metabolite screening. His grant portfolio emphasizes One Health applications spanning clinical medicine, veterinary science, and sustainable agriculture. He directs the Animal and Human (A2H) research unit within KU Leuven's Arenberg campus, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration between microbiologists, bioinformaticians, and engineers. His team actively participates in the Phage Valley initiative and Leuven One Health Institute, developing bench-to-bedside solutions for antimicrobial resistance while maintaining strong ties with the ICTV for advancing viral taxonomy standards.

Anne MäkeläView profile

Lecturer

• Evolutionary Biology
• Ecology
• Microbial Symbiosis
• +2 more

Anne Mäkelä is a Lecturer in Evolutionary Biology at the University of Helsinki, affiliated with the Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences and the Organismal and Evolutionary Biology Research Programme. She teaches courses such as BIO_103: Eliöiden monimuotoisuus , BIO_301: Tutkimuksen teon perusteet , and EEB_201: Laboratory Methods in Molecular Ecology . Her research focuses on host-symbiont interactions, particularly coevolution between insects and their microbiota, with a strong emphasis on Wolbachia and other endosymbionts. She leads the Insect Symbiosis Ecology and Evolution (ISEE) research group and contributes to projects like The hidden value of Microbial Symbionts for Sustainable Agriculture (MiSSA) and Wild Animal Phenotyping Infrastructure . Her recent publications analyze microbial diversity, Wolbachia strain dynamics, and genomic methods for symbiosis studies. Trends in her work include leveraging genomic data to uncover symbiotic relationships, studying the impact of symbionts on host ecology, and exploring applications in sustainable agriculture. Scientific Awards: Best conference partaker (2022) Funding for Conference Organizing (CoE in Biological Interactions, 2016) Ella & Georg Enrnrooth Foundation Grant (2016) Knut och Alice Wallenbergs stiftelse for Contact Outside Europe (2019) LUOVA Funding for Conference Organizing (2016) She coordinates the LUOVA doctoral program, supervises MSc and doctoral theses, and organizes outreach initiatives like the Viikki Sustainability Day. Her work also involves international collaborations and participation in conferences, workshops, and seminars.

Robert BlairView profile

Professor

• Avian Ecology
• Urban Ecology
• Conservation Biology
• +4 more

Robert Blair is a Professor in the Department of Fisheries, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology at the University of Minnesota's College of Food, Agriculture and Natural Resources Sciences. His research focuses on conservation biology within human-dominated landscapes, particularly avian ecology and urban ecology, with significant contributions to citizen science methodologies and environmental education. Education Ph.D. from Stanford University Blair's research centers on understanding how land use affects bird communities in urban and human-altered environments. He advocates for studying biodiversity in the 'unswimmable ocean' of human-dominated landscapes rather than pristine habitats. His work includes extensive studies on bird-building collisions, urban bird conservation, and the role of citizen science in environmental education. Recent publications reveal strong trends in urban ecology, collision mitigation strategies, and participatory science methodologies with practical applications for conservation policy. Advising and Grants Blair has advised twelve graduate students including current PhD candidates Sam Safran, Andrew Hallberg, Zonish Javed, and Lucas Rapisarda. His research is supported by diverse sponsors including the National Science Foundation, Environmental and Natural Resources Trust Fund, Three Rivers Parks District, U.S. Bank Stadium, Audubon-Minnesota, Fulbright Foundation, Cargill Foundation, and the College of Food, Agriculture and Natural Resources Sciences. Labs and Teams He leads the Blair Lab, which operates through three integrated pillars: Urban Ecology (focusing on human-modified landscapes), Public Science (engaging citizens in all scientific stages), and Diversity, Equity & Inclusion. Key initiatives include Project BirdSafe, Minnesota Master Naturalist, Driven to Discover, and Nature for New Minnesotans. The lab actively involves undergraduate researchers, citizen scientists, and community partners in its conservation efforts.