Interests
Primate Behavioral EcologyI am broadly interested in understanding the causes and evolutionary consequences of behavioral variation, using extant primates as model organisms. More specifically, my research addresses the question of how individuals adapt to ecological and social conditions, and to what extent individual strategies have fitness consequences that can drive behavioral evolution. As fitness measures are difficult to obtain for long-lived primate species, many open questions exist about the adaptive value of behavioral variation among individuals, groups, populations, and species. To find new answers, my work emphasizes the links between proximate mechanisms and ultimate functions, and makes use of the latest advances in laboratory methods and analytical tools. |
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Conservation BiologyParallel to my research in animal behavioral ecology, I maintain an active interest in conservation biology that started with my involvement in protecting valuable habitats for dragonflies and birds in Germany. As a postdoctoral researcher with Boston College and the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), I currently investigate the socioeconomic correlates of bushmeat consumption in rural Gabon, and the impact of protected areas on human livelihoods. Results from this project will inform management guidelines aimed at reducing the extinction risk of local wildlife. |
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PhotographyI have been an active photographer for more than 15 years. Although my passion has been, and probably always will be, wildlife and landscape photography, over the last few years I have increasingly expanded into other areas as well, particularly travel photography and portraiture. You can see some of my work used throughout this site. For more examples, please follow the link above. |
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