Julien Martin is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biology at the University of Ottawa, leading the M.A.D. Lab (Marvelous Animals Data). His research focuses on evolutionary processes shaping wild populations, particularly in yellow-bellied marmots and Alpine swifts, examining how environmental changes influence evolution and individual variation. He emphasizes quantitative genetics, behavioral ecology, and long-term monitoring. His lab promotes open science, sharing data/code via OSF, and values inclusivity and reproducibility. Education: PhD in reproductive strategies of bighorn sheep under Marco Festa-Bianchet; M.Sc. in personality in wild chipmunks under Denis Réale. He teaches biostatistics (R-based courses) and provides statistical consulting. Current students include MSc candidates Émilie Gagnon and Carol-Ann Chabot, and honors students Bernadette Chan, Mayra Monir, Maryam Musso-Bello, Serena Spallin, and Yasmeen Hichri. Collaborations span institutions like UCLA and the Rocky Mountain Biological Laboratory. Research highlights: senescence in marmots, climate impacts on traits, UAV-based habitat mapping, and genetic variance in within-individual variation. Active projects include manatee behavioral ecology in Mexico and orangutan nest studies via citizen science (Zooniverse). The lab’s reproducibility pledge includes data/code sharing at publication and training students in open science practices.
Dr Miguel Borges Da Costa Guint Barbosa is a Lecturer in Marine Biology at the School of Biology, University of St Andrews. His work contributes to the UN Sustainable Development Goals related to Education and Conservation. He holds external positions with the GEM group and the SULSA Ecosystems Theme, and has led projects such as the CSG3 coastal survey. He is actively involved in academic activities, including organizing career days for undergraduate and postgraduate students, and developing new educational technologies. Education Background: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in "Female mating decisions in the Trinidadian guppy, Poecilia reticulata" from the University of St Andrews (2005–2008, Awarded 2009) Master of Biology in "Sex change in Labrids" from James Cook University (2003–2004, Awarded 2004) Bachelor of Science in "Ontogenetic shift in the abundance and distribution of Apletodon dentatus" from the University of Lisbon (1993–2000, Awarded 2000) Master of Education and PG Certificate in Academic Practice in Higher Education from the University of Dundee (2019–2021, Awarded 2021) His research interests are centered on understanding the evolutionary, ecological, and behavioral impacts of environmental heterogeneity on tropical fish life history traits. He also focuses on innovative educational practices to enhance student engagement and research capabilities in higher education. His work bridges marine biology with pedagogy, emphasizing hands-on and interactive learning methods. Key areas include the behavioral ecology of tropical species, conservation strategies in marine ecosystems, and the development of effective teaching methodologies. Barbosa's recent research publications highlight a focus on both ecological dynamics and educational advancements. Notable trends include investigations into individual behavioral variations in invasive species, coral reef ecology, and the application of biodiversity databases to study Anthropocene impacts. Earlier works explored mating behaviors in guppies and reproductive strategies influenced by predation risks, showcasing a consistent interest in how environmental factors shape biological outcomes. Scientific Awards and Recognition: Best Teacher Nomination (2019) Best Teacher Nomination (2022) Grant Activity: Miguel led the "CSG3 - 360 Survey of the Coastal Environment" project funded by the Marine Alliance for Science & Technology Scotland, active from 2020 to 2021. While no specific students are listed, he is actively involved in mentoring and supervising research opportunities, emphasizing his commitment to empowering students in both academic and career development through organized events and workshops. Labs and Teams: Barbosa is affiliated with the GEM group under the Scottish Universities Life Science Alliance (SULSA) and contributes to the SULSA Ecosystems Theme. These affiliations highlight his collaborative approach to research and education in marine and ecological systems.
Dr Debbie JF Russell is a Principal Research Fellow at the University of St Andrews' School of Biology, based at the Sea Mammal Research Unit (SMRU). Her research focuses on marine predator ecology, particularly seals, addressing interactions between these species and anthropogenic environments. She leads projects on seal population dynamics, conservation legislation, and the impact of offshore energy structures (EcoSTAR project). She supervises PhD and Masters students, including Mia Goldman, James Harris, and Maria Iruzuns Martins. Her work integrates quantitative methods like Bayesian analysis and satellite telemetry to inform sustainable management strategies. She collaborates on grants funded by NERC and other agencies, exploring topics like seal behavior, habitat use, and anthropogenic impacts. Russell co-leads initiatives such as the NAMMCO-ICES seal modeling workshop and contributes to policy frameworks for marine biodiversity conservation. Education: Not explicitly detailed in provided texts. Key Research Areas: Seal abundance trends, at-sea distribution, anthropogenic structure impacts, and conservation policy. Research Interests: Dr Russell’s work combines ecological modeling with applied conservation, emphasizing seal population health, human-seal interactions, and the role of marine protected areas. She uses telemetry data and computational tools to assess threats from offshore energy projects and climate change. Recent studies include analyzing the effects of tidal turbines on harbor seals and evaluating genetic connectivity in Irish harbor seal populations. Grants & Projects: Active projects include SMRU’s NERC-funded research (2024–2029) and the ACTNOW initiative on cumulative marine biodiversity impacts. Past work includes the EcoSTAR project on artificial reefs and the MAPS study on man-made structures and apex predators. Labs & Teams: SMRU and the Centre for Research into Ecological & Environmental Modelling (CREEM) at St Andrews. Collaborators include institutions like the University of Abertay and international partners such as NAMMCO and ICES.
Dr David Thompson is a Principal Research Fellow (Re-engaged) at the University of St Andrews' School of Biology, focusing on marine mammal behavior and conservation. His work addresses ecological impacts of human activities on seals, including tagging technology, acoustic noise effects, and renewable energy interactions. Key research areas include thermoregulation in seals, habitat distribution modeling, and non-lethal seal management strategies. Recent studies highlight his contributions to reducing tagging-induced stress in marine animals and assessing collision risks from tidal turbines. Thompson collaborates extensively with organizations like Scottish Natural Heritage and NERC, leading projects on marine mammal conservation and policy-informing research. His findings inform environmental management strategies for sustainable coexistence between marine ecosystems and human infrastructure. Publications span peer-reviewed journals and commissioned reports, emphasizing practical applications of ecological research. Notable projects include habitat-based distribution models for seals and acoustic risk assessments for marine mammals exposed to shipping noise.
Māris Munkevics serves as an Acting Assistant in the Statistics Unit, contributing to interdisciplinary research across ecology, neuroscience, and psychiatry. His work demonstrates strong methodological expertise in statistical analysis applied to biological systems. His research interests span multiple domains with a primary focus on ecological and evolutionary processes . Notably, he investigates predator-prey dynamics in Drosophila melanogaster , examining how developmental exposure to predation risk influences adult survival strategies, serotonin signaling, and behavioral plasticity. His work extends to pollinator ecology, studying bumblebee health in relation to apiary proximity, and avian ecology through research on great tit nestlings' telomere dynamics in different forest types. A unique interdisciplinary contribution includes investigating the mental health impacts of yin yoga interventions during the pandemic. Analysis of his recent publications reveals a consistent pattern of research connecting environmental stressors with biological outcomes across multiple species. His work bridges statistical methodology with field biology, producing significant insights into how organisms adapt to environmental challenges. The publications show strong collaborative patterns, particularly with researchers Krams and Krama, indicating established research partnerships. Māris contributes to multiple UN Sustainable Development Goals through his ecological research, particularly those related to life on land and good health and well-being. His fingerprint analysis confirms deep expertise in agricultural and biological sciences (100% Drosophila melanogaster research) and substantial contributions to neuroscience (50% serotonin-related work). His research output shows consistent productivity with publications spanning 2020-2025, demonstrating active engagement in multiple research streams simultaneously. The statistical methodology expertise evident in his position appears central to his collaborative research approach across diverse biological systems.
Professor Emily Shepard is a faculty member in the School of Biosciences, Geography and Physics at Swansea University, where she holds a Professorial position. Her research focuses on animal movement ecology, particularly the mechanisms underlying flight costs and patterns in birds, integrating biotelemetry and environmental data to explore ecological consequences. She leads the Swansea Lab for Animal Movement, specializing in novel technologies to study intractable species. Her research expertise spans movement ecology, flight biomechanics, aeroecology, and energetic strategies, with a focus on how physical environments influence animal behavior. Key grants include the ERC Starter Grant (2017-2022) and Leverhulme Early Career Fellowship (2010-2012). Professor Shepard's work emphasizes conservation applications, using animal-attached technology to inform species management. Recent publications highlight turbulence effects on flight, seabird flight adaptations, and the role of air density gradients in avian energetics. She collaborates with institutions globally and has contributed to multidisciplinary projects, including a partnership with ByteSnap Design for technological development. Her teaching includes modules like BIO114 (Animal Diversity and Behaviour), BIO229 (Tetrapod Evolution), and BIO308 (Movement Ecology), covering topics from evolutionary physiology to modern tracking methodologies.
Dr. Daniel Forman is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Biosciences at Swansea University, affiliated with the School of Biosciences, Geography and Physics. He holds multiple roles including Senior Academic Mentor and Disability Link Officer within the department, alongside leadership in the Conservation Ecology Society and the Swansea Academy of Inclusive Learning. His research focuses on carnivore ecology, wildlife diseases, biodiversity, and ecological monitoring. Notable areas include predator-prey dynamics, otter behavior, and the application of DNA metabarcoding in pollination networks. Recent work explores employer-led learning frameworks for ecology graduates and the impact of grazing on pollinator populations. Forman has supervised three recent postgraduate projects (2023): investigating otter predation roles in marine ecosystems, otter diet effects on freshwater trophic systems, and stakeholder perceptions of landscape fires. His publications span over two decades, addressing topics like salmon smolt migration, toxoplasmosis in marine mammals, and avian energy budgets. Active in university governance, he serves on ethics committees, employability boards, and wildlife conservation groups such as the British Wildlife Rehabilitation Council. His work bridges ecological research with practical applications in education, policy, and biodiversity preservation.
John Quinn is a Professor in Zoology at University College Cork (UCC), Ireland. He holds the title of Professor since 2015 and has been a Lecturer in Ecology at UCC since 2012. He previously held positions at the University of Oxford, including a Leverhulme Trust Research Fellowship (2001–2004) and postdoctoral roles focusing on behavioral ecology and conservation biology. Education: PhD in Zoology (2000), University of Oxford MSc in Biological Computation (1990), University of York BSc (Hons) Zoology (1988), University College Dublin Research Interests: Cognitive ecology and individual variation in animal behavior Seabird ecology and conservation Microbiome-gut-brain interactions in wild birds Ecological impacts of human activities on avian populations His ERC Consolidator Grant (€1.99M) supports research on cognition in heterogeneous environments, and he has secured over €5M in total research funding. Quinn has supervised 14 PhD and 2 MRes students, as well as 9 postdocs. Key Achievements: Founder of the BEES seminar series and Research Club at UCC Associate Editor at three international journals for 20+ years Over 100 peer-reviewed publications with a h-index of 43 Lead on impactful projects like the APC Microbiome Ireland initiative Outreach & Engagement: Consultant for conservation NGOs (e.g., BirdWatch Ireland) Public lectures on behavioral ecology and conservation Adviser to art exhibitions linking ecology and public engagement
Rainer Klages is a Reader in Applied Mathematics at Queen Mary University of London (QMUL), where he has been since 2004. His research integrates dynamical systems theory, nonequilibrium statistical physics, and stochastic processes to study complex systems, with applications in nanoscience, biology, and movement ecology. He explores phenomena such as anomalous diffusion, fractal structures in chaotic systems, and stochastic models of biological movement (e.g., cell migration and bumblebee foraging). He holds a Dr.rer.nat.habil. in Physics and has taught undergraduate courses like Calculus and Differential Equations, as well as postgraduate courses on dynamical systems. Klages has secured research funding from institutions such as the Office of Naval Research Global, the Mercator Foundation, and the EPSRC. He has supervised 7 PhD students, 5 postdocs, and 17 master’s students. Notable contributions include his monograph on microscopic chaos and transport (2007), and his work on anomalous dynamics in biological systems (e.g., 2008 PNAS paper on cell migration). Klages is affiliated with QMUL’s Centre for Complex Systems and has organized international workshops and conferences on topics like statistical physics and foraging dynamics. His research bridges theoretical foundations and experimental applications, emphasizing interdisciplinary approaches.
Chris Jolly is a Macquarie Research Fellow (MQRF) at Macquarie University's School of Natural Sciences, where he conducts research at the intersection of behavioural ecology, evolutionary biology, and conservation science. His work focuses on understanding how animals adapt to rapidly changing environments, with particular emphasis on improving survival strategies for terrestrial vertebrates in increasingly fire-prone landscapes. His educational background includes: PhD in Ecology from The University of Melbourne (awarded October 5, 2020) Bachelor of Science (Honours with University Medal) in Ecology from the University of Sydney (awarded April 1, 2014) Dr. Jolly's research program centers on animal adaptation mechanisms in response to environmental change, particularly fire regimes. His work combines field observations with experimental approaches to understand behavioral and evolutionary responses. He has developed expertise in studying fire-cue recognition in reptiles, genomic responses to landscape modification, and conservation applications of environmental DNA techniques. His research spans multiple Australian ecosystems, focusing on threatened species and their conservation management. Analysis of his recent publications reveals a strong focus on conservation applications of ecological research, with particular emphasis on fire ecology, reptile conservation, and innovative monitoring techniques. His work frequently involves interdisciplinary collaboration across institutions and integrates field studies with molecular and genomic approaches. His notable recognitions include: University Medal for outstanding performance in his BSc (Honours) Macquarie Research Fellow (MQRF) position, a competitive early-career research fellowship Dr. Jolly maintains active research collaborations through his external positions as Research Associate at both the Australian Museum Research Institute and Charles Sturt University. His work generates significant academic impact with 62 research outputs to date, including numerous high-profile publications in conservation biology journals. His research has attracted substantial attention, with mentions across multiple news outlets, social media platforms, and academic networks.
Professor Ton Groothuis is a faculty member at the University of Groningen, affiliated with the Faculty of Science and Engineering and the Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences. His research focuses on behavioral biology, animal personalities, and hormonal influences on behavior. He has contributed to studies on laterality in animals, predator exposure effects, and hormonal regulation in developmental processes. Recent work includes investigations into offspring sex ratio manipulation in birds, cognitive bias in fish, and the impacts of maternal hormones on embryonic development. Groothuis collaborates internationally, as evidenced by publications with authors from multiple institutions. His work has been highlighted in media discussions about animal behavior and conservation. Publications span peer-reviewed journals like Animal Behaviour and Hormones and Behavior , emphasizing interdisciplinary approaches in evolutionary and ecological contexts. Awards are not explicitly listed, but his research has garnered attention through media features and academic collaborations.
Christian Blum is a researcher in the Department of Behavioral and Cognitive Biology at the Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Vienna, specializing in avian cognition with a primary focus on common ravens (Corvus corax). His work examines complex social dynamics, communication systems, and cognitive processes in these highly intelligent birds. His research interests include: Avian social behavior and communication Cognitive processing of alarm calls and predator responses Developmental impacts of rearing styles on social competence Cultural transmission and long-term memory in predatory contexts Individual differences in cognitive skills among ravens Analysis of Dr. Blum's publications reveals a consistent research trajectory examining how social structures influence raven behavior across multiple dimensions. His work demonstrates sophisticated experimental approaches to studying cognitive processes in non-human animals, with particular attention to how environmental factors shape behavioral responses. The research often involves collaborative work with Thomas Bugnyar and William Tecumseh Sherman Fitch. His scientific recognition includes: Best Poster Presentation award (2018) Uni:docs Stipendium fellowship (2017) VDS CoBeNe Completion Grant (2021) Dr. Blum maintains active engagement with the scientific community through conference presentations and academic collaborations. His research contributes significantly to understanding complex cognition in avian species, particularly corvids, with implications for broader questions in evolutionary biology and cognitive science.
Stefan Dullinger is a Professor in the Department of Botany and Biodiversity Research at the University of Vienna’s Faculty of Life Sciences. His research focuses on climate change impacts, invasive species, and biodiversity conservation in alpine and tropical ecosystems. He leads projects such as MICROCLIM, examining alpine flora under climate change, and has contributed to over 200 peer-reviewed publications. Research Interests: Climate Change Adaptation in Ecosystems Biological Invasions and Their Management Protected Area Effectiveness Species Distribution Modeling Mountain and Alpine Ecosystems Key Projects: ERC-funded MICROCLIM (2021–2025): Microscale analysis of alpine plant responses to climate change Climate change impacts on global alpine diversity (2025–2029) Modeling drivers of plant radiation (2021–2024) Publications Highlight: Over 200 articles, including work on agroforestry impacts, alien species distributions, and forest management challenges in Europe. Recent contributions emphasize ethical dilemmas in conservation and global biodiversity footprints of urban consumption. Collaborations: Extensive international networks, with recent contributions to UN SDG-related research and interdisciplinary studies on epigenetics and climate adaptation in alpine plants.
Michel T. Kohl is an Associate Professor of Wildlife Management and Wildlife Extension Specialist at the School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia. He is also the current President of the Georgia Chapter of The Wildlife Society (2024–2026) and a 2024 Wildlife Society Fellow. His work focuses on wildlife spatial ecology, predator-prey dynamics, and conservation strategies in multi-use landscapes. Education: Ph.D. in Ecology (Wildlife Emphasis), Utah State University (2019) M.S. and B.S. in Wildlife Biology, University of Montana (2012, 2009) A.S. in Honors, Dawson Community College (2006) Research Interests: Dr. Kohl’s research examines wildlife spatial behaviors, habitat selection, and conservation challenges such as predator-prey interactions, urban wildlife management, and translocation strategies. Current projects include black bear population dynamics in Georgia, urban wildlife in Atlanta, and habitat restoration for Eastern diamondback rattlesnakes on Jekyll Island. Awards: 2024 The Wildlife Society Fellow 2023 Alumni Association Faculty Award for Outreach 2023 First-Year Odyssey Teaching Award 2022 Faculty Award for Early Career Teaching Advising & Grants: Advises the UGA Chapter of The Wildlife Society. Grants and funding details are not explicitly listed in the provided text. Labs/Teams: Lead of the Kohl Wildlife Lab, focusing on applied conservation research and outreach. Collaborates with agencies on projects like turtle translocation and urban wildlife mitigation.
Travis DeVault is the Associate Director for Research at the Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia. He holds a B.S. in Life Sciences (Indiana State University, 1996), an M.A. in Ecology (Indiana State University, 1999), and a Ph.D. in Wildlife Ecology (Purdue University, 2003). His research focuses on wildlife ecology and management, particularly addressing animal-vehicle collisions, scavenging ecology, and human-wildlife interactions. Key areas include understanding carnivore carrion utilization, ornithology, and developing mitigation strategies for wildlife damage. His work integrates field and laboratory studies to inform conservation and management practices. Research interests include the ecological role of scavengers, avian behavior in collision scenarios, and the impacts of anthropogenic factors on wildlife. He has contributed to studies on bird-aircraft collisions, urbanization effects on vulture roosting, and the distribution of trace metals in ecosystems. His findings are applied to enhance wildlife safety, reduce human-wildlife conflicts, and improve environmental management strategies. Dr. DeVault’s recent studies highlight trends in animal-vehicle collision mitigation, the global structure of scavenger networks, and the efficacy of lighting systems in reducing deer-vehicle collisions. His work underscores the importance of interdisciplinary approaches in addressing ecological challenges and advancing practical conservation solutions.
