My research program focuses on the mechanisms (physiological and molecular) underlying life-history variation, from ageing to migratory behaviour.
Understanding the environmental sensitivity of the proximate mechanisms shaping organisms’ phenotype, from conception to death may elucidate the current and future performance of individuals in response to human activity.
My research is at the crossroads between physiology, evolutionary ecology, and environmental sciences. I combine correlation and experimental approaches in wild and captive populations, together with laboratory analyses to shed light on the proximate mechanisms underlying life-history variation. In addition I am particularly interested on how human activity shapes these. Within this framework, I have developed two complementary research foci:
My research is at the crossroads between physiology, evolutionary ecology, and environmental sciences. I combine correlation and experimental approaches in wild and captive populations, together with laboratory analyses to shed light on the proximate mechanisms underlying life-history variation. In addition I am particularly interested on how human activity shapes these. Within this framework, I have developed two complementary research foci:
1. Physiological and molecular life history nexus
An important part of my work aims to better understand, from a life-history perspective, the link between inter-individual differences in physiological and molecular mechanisms and animal performance. I achieve this by combining correlational data in wild populations with experiments under captive conditions but keeping the ecological relevance to later facilitate the transfer of the acquired knowledge into natural populations.
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2. Responses to human impact: from organelle to evolutionary change
I lead a research program focused on investigating the ecological and evolutionary responses of wildlife to human-induced changes, with a particular emphasis on urbanisation and its associated stressors, including pollution. My approach is interdisciplinary, spanning from understanding the physiological mechanisms to exploring individual performance and evolutionary dynamics.
Within this context, I have conducted studies examining the relationship between urbanisation and physiological markers of health and senescence in wild avian populations, such as telomeres or oxidative stress. Furthermore, my interest in avian biology have led me to collaborate on projects exploring the effects of human activities on feather coloration and structure.
Furthermore, I have expanded my research program to investigate the effects of pollution and land use on aquatic ecosystems at the individual level. To accomplish this, I use the white-throated dipper (Cinclus cinclus) as a model organism and collaborate with an interdisciplinary team based in my home county Bizkaia (Basque Country).
Tools and Methods
Laboratory
- High-resolution Respirometry: I employ high-resolution respirometry to conduct bioenergetic and OXPHOS (oxidative phosphorylation) analyses, enabling a detailed examination at the cellular level of the energetic costs associated with different life history strategies and their correlation with individual performance. Whenever feasible, I prioritise minimally invasive methods such as blood samples or biopsies.
- qPCR (Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction): I use qPCR to obtain relative quantifications of telomere length, mitochondrial gene copy number, or parasitaemia, providing valuable insights into various physiological processes.
- Oxidative Stress Analyses: I conduct analyses to assess oxidative stress by measuring the resulting oxidative damage to biomolecules such as DNA, lipids, and proteins, as well as evaluating antioxidant status through enzymatic and non-enzymatic activities. This approach helps elucidate potential constraints arising from imbalances in the production rate of reactive oxygen species (ROS).
- ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay): I employ ELISA and other immunoassay techniques to detect and quantify hormones, immune parameters, or DNA damage, facilitating a comprehensive understanding of various physiological and molecular phenomena.
Main Study Sites and Systems
- Helgoland Island: In collaboration with Dr. Jochen Dierschke, we conduct various research projects focusing on the stopover physiology of songbirds. Additionally, we oversee the long-term monitoring of the resident Eurasian blackbird (Turdus merula) population on the island, gathering comprehensive data on their physiology and life history.
- Wold und Woldsee: In partnership with Prof. Dr. Miriam Liedvogell, I contribute to the monitoring efforts of a partial migratory population of European robins (Erithacus rubecula) to gain insights into the mechanisms underlying migratory decisions.
- Captive experiments: I lead experiments and longitudinal studies investigating the physiological plasticity of Eurasian blackcaps (Sylvia atricapilla) and Northern Wheatears (Oenanthe oenanthe), comparing different life-history stages and variations in migratory strategies across populations. Prof. Dr. Miriam Liedvogel. Dr. Miriam Liedvogel is also involved in these endeavors.