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Macroecologist and Conservation Biologist, University of the Free State

I'm a macroecologist and conservation biologist who is trying to figure out why species occur where they do. Not only is this fascinating from an academic standpoint, it is essential for managing conservation initiatives effectively. I recently completed my doctoral research at the University of Leuven, Belgium, and am currently a lecturer in Environmental Management at the University of the Free State, South Africa.

My recent work includes a study of the ecological and evolutionary processes underlying the distributions of 4423 species of amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals across sub-Saharan Africa. I am also interested in designing analytical frameworks to encourage objective evidence-based decision-making in conservation and in how we can use entrepreneurial approaches to conserve nature more effectively. My research has been published in leading international journals, including Ecology, Conservation Biology and Global Ecology and Biogeography.

I am a member of the International Biogeography Society and the Society for Conservation Biology. In my spare time, I write about conservation- and ecology-themed issues on my blog, The Solitary Ecologist (www.solitaryecology.com), where I also share self-made guides of my favourite hiking trails.

Experience

  • –present
    Macroecologist and conservation biologist, University of the Free State

Education

  • 2014 
    University of Leuven, Belgium, Doctor in Science (Biology)

Grants and Contracts

  • 2018
    Role:
    Macroecologist and Conservation Biologist
    Funding Source:
    National Research Foundation