Research Interests
My current research interests are centered on two main themes. Firstly, we are examining the role that micro-organisms have on the evolutionary ecology of wild vertebrates. Secondly, we are studying the ecological and behavioural factors that maintain variance in reproductive success commonly observed in wild populations. The work is been carried out mostly with birds. I am also currently working with Alexandre Roulin on the behavioural and hormonal aspects of lactation.
I am continuing work on the ecological and evolutionary aspects of host-ectoparasite interactions and have collaborated on other themes including: the evolution of life history traits and social behaviour in birds (Heinz Richner); strategies of begging and parental investment (Matthias Kölliker) and genetic bases of immune responses in altricial birds (Martin Brinkhof).
