Our research is mainly focused on conservation biology, with a strong emphasis on soil ecology. Most of our current research projects are related to the evolutionary ecology, phylogenetics, and conservation genetics/genomics of invertebrates.
We use earthworms and some of their allies to tease apart the factors that influence the soil’s black box. From ecosystem functioning to the molecular basis of an individual species function (including gut-associated microbiota), are all taken as underlying components supporting the whole ecological system, its resilience, and, ultimately its sustainability.
In addition, we are interested in how human disturbance, biogeography, and non-native animals have and will continue to affect the evolutionary processes that generate and sustain biological diversity.
Most of our projects involve the use of molecular tools, next-generation sequencing, and cellular biology with field-based research to assess biodiversity across scales.
One of our latest research project focus on the study of soil biodiversity in historical anthropogenic ecosystems, and the role of humans as niche constructors.
We are also interested in using the genetics of commensal animals as proxies to track and infer ancient human migrations/dynamics across South America.
For some research opportunities CLICK HERE
The Rio Madeira Expedition: 23.05.2017, Manicore City
A early start this morning (4a.m.) as our flights leaves by 5:55 (using the Apui air taxi) I can't stop to be amazed every time I am flying over Amazonia. Rio Negro, Solimões, Madeira are just colossal rivers cutting through the densest green carpet. You can see water...
29.05.2017 Aripuanã River
Today we started by meeting up local collaborators to ask about local community and to plan a visit to at least one. Aripuanã River is a beautiful dark water river, that shows several branches towards the end where it finally meets Madeira river. During the early...