Iago Sanmartín Villar

Iago Sanmartín Villar is an Assistant Professor at the University of León, Spain, affiliated with the Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences and the Department of Biodiversity and Environmental Management. His work bridges field and laboratory studies to explore behavioral variability in solitary and social insects, focusing on how early experiences, male harassment, and environmental shifts shape behavioral patterns and evolutionary trajectories. He has studied 21 species and collaborated with over 35 researchers globally.

Education:

• PhD in Biology (2017), University of Vigo
• MSc in Ethology (2012), University of Córdoba
• BSc in Biology (2009), University of Santiago de Compostela

His research interests span ecological and evolutionary mechanisms driving animal behavior, with recent studies on Argentine ants, amphibian communication, and invasive species dynamics. Articles emphasize neuroethology, conservation strategies, and biomechanical adaptations. Collaborative projects include work with the Polish Academy of Sciences and ECOEVO Laboratory.

Advising:

• Mario Crespo Montalbán, MSc thesis on Lasius neglectus metapopulation analysis
• Íñigo Navidad, BSc thesis on urban pigeon antipredator behavior

He actively participates in outreach (e.g., Expociencia 2025) and interdisciplinary initiatives, leveraging open science tools like AnimalTA for video tracking.