Miriam Simon

Miriam Simon is a PhD student affiliated with the University of Leipzig (Faculty of Life Science, Institute of Biology), Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research (UFZ), and the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology in Leipzig, Germany. Her research focuses on the interplay between gut microbiome, pesticide exposure, and health markers in southern pig-tailed macaques.

Education:

• PhD in progress (2025–present) at UFZ, University of Leipzig, and MPI EVA
• MSc in Evolutionary Anthropology (2018–2021) at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz
• BSc in Biology (2014–2018) at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz

Her work investigates how agricultural practices, particularly pesticide use, affect primate health and fitness in oil palm plantations. She collaborates with institutions in Malaysia and Germany, funded by iDiv Flexpool and other awards.

Scientific Awards:

• Christian-Vogel-Fund for field research (2024)
• Pre-Doc Award, University of Leipzig (2023–2024)

Miriam's 2024 publication on Barbary macaque sniffing behavior highlights her expertise in primate sensory ecology. Her research bridges microbial ecology, toxicology, and applied conservation strategies.