Barbara Gravendeel

Barbara Gravendeel is Professor at Radboud University and Researcher/Group Leader in Evolutionary Ecology at Naturalis Biodiversity Center, specializing in plant evolution and development in ecological contexts. Her work investigates molecular mechanisms determining plant morphology, focusing on adaptations in ancient vegetations and modern urban environments.

Research spans orchid, Chinese lantern, and dandelion evolution using micro-morphological and genetic tools to analyze urban vs. non-urban plant variations. Key interests include eco-evolutionary developmental biology and genomic adaptations.

As group leader, she mentors postdoctoral researchers and PhD students in evolutionary ecology. Her team collaborates internationally on conservation genetics and urban flora studies.