Theoretical Biology
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Our Mission
By developing and teaching theoretical models, we aim to contribute to a better understanding of the natural world. In nature, we can observe a great diversity of ecological and evolutionary outcomes. We want to study the processes that underlie these varied, and sometimes seemingly contradictory outcomes and contribute to theory that deepens our understanding of the unifying principles behind them. Specifically, we aim to better understand
1) the dynamics of small populations, i.e. why some small populations survive while others go extinct, and
2) the causes and consequences of biodiversity, especially of individual differences within a species.
For this, we develop ecological, evolutionary, and eco-evolutionary models, often in close and interdisciplinary collaboration with local and international theoreticians and empiricists. We strive to contribute not only
[1] Mead, L. S. et al. Factors influencing minority student decisions to consider a career in evolutionary biology. Evol. Educ. Outreach 8, 6 (2015).
[2] Hofstra, B. et al. The Diversity–Innovation Paradox in Science. Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. 117, 9284–9291 (2020).
to basic science, but also to practical applications. For example, our work can help policy makers make informed decisions to improve conservation of biodiversity and mitigate climate change impacts.
We are committed to transparent, honest, reproducible and open science. Furthermore, we focus on the effective communication of science in papers and talks. Our group aims to provide students, PhD students, and postdocs with a supportive and collaborative environment that fosters their individual learning and growth. We provide opportunities for everyone to improve their biological and mathematical knowledge, as well as their scientific programming, statistical and scientific reasoning skills. These skills are helpful across many different career paths, be it as an independent researcher or for a successful career outside academia. We believe that science is better when it is welcoming to everyone. Diversity, equity, and inclusivity aren’t just values but are essential to good science because different perspectives spark new ideas [1,2]. Thus we are committed to creating a friendly and safe environment where all people are respected and welcomed.