Ana Sofia Reboleira

Ana Sofia Reboleira is an Associate Professor at the Natural History Museum of the University of Copenhagen, where she leads a research group focused on subterranean ecosystems and biodiversity. Her academic profile demonstrates extensive expertise in entomology, ecology, and subterranean biology with particular emphasis on groundwater ecosystems and cave-adapted organisms.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Biology, University of Aveiro (Portugal), 2008-2012 (awarded 2013)
• Master in Ecology, Biodiversity and Ecosystem Management, University of Aveiro, 2001-2007
• Bachelor in Biology, University of Aveiro, completed 2006

Her research interests span biodiversity, evolution, and ecotoxicology of subterranean organisms, with a special focus on arthropods adapted to cave environments and arthropod-fungi associations. She employs multidisciplinary approaches to study how anthropogenic activities impact these fragile ecosystems, with significant contributions to groundwater conservation science.

Her publication record shows a clear focus on subterranean biology, with recent work addressing groundwater ecosystem health assessment, conservation strategies using eDNA technology, physiological adaptations of stygobitic organisms, and taxonomic studies of cave-adapted fauna. Her research demonstrates strong international collaboration across multiple continents.

Scientific Recognition:

• VILLUM Young Investigator award (2017)

Professor Reboleira actively contributes to the academic community through teaching (Entomology and Field Biology II: Terrestrial Zoology), editorial work for research journals, and organization of major international conferences including the 24th International Conference on Subterranean Biology. She has delivered numerous lectures on groundwater life and subterranean biodiversity conservation, demonstrating her commitment to science communication and policy-relevant research.

Her research group maintains strong connections with international collaborators across Europe and beyond, working on comparative studies of subterranean evolution and conservation challenges facing groundwater ecosystems worldwide.