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Senior Lecturer in Biosciences, Swansea University

My research interests focus on the factors that influence the evolution of biodiversity. I primarily use phylogenetic comparative methods to investigate the causes and consequences of two types of diversity: species richness and the diversity of (e.g. behavioural) traits possessed by species. The traits I am most interested in are toxic weaponry of animals such as venoms and poisons.

As part of my interest in the evolution of diversity, I also study convergent evolution - a phenomenon in which different lineages of organisms evolve similar traits. In particular I have an interest in methods for studying convergence. I maintain separate interests in applied and conceptual developments of animal husbandry and welfare. Finally, I have a particular penchant for reptiles (particularly snakes), amphibians, and a range of interesting (and often venomous) invertebrate groups, and try to focus my work on these groups wherever possible.

Experience

  • 2020–present
    Senior lecturer, Swansea University
  • 2015–2020
    Honorary postdoctoral research fellow, University of Liverpool
  • 2016–2020
    Lecturer, Swansea University

Education

  • 2019 
    Swansea University, PGCert (Teaching in Higher Education)
  • 2015 
    University of Liverpool, PhD (Evolutionary Biology)
  • 2010 
    University of Glasgow, MSci Zoology

Professional Memberships

  • Fellow of the Higher Education Academy