Focus

Our research focuses on quantifying spatial and temporal variation in biotic and abiotic components of the Earth system. We address this research with a number of research projects and research themes. We ask questions such as:

• What are the fundamental drivers and determinants of species distributions and biodiversity patterns from local to continental and global scales?

• How do species distributions, functional traits, biotic interactions, ecosystems, and aspects of geodiversity vary across space and time?

• What are the effects of current and future global change on biodiversity, protected areas, ecosystem services and human well-being?

Approach

To understand, track and predict the functioning of geo-ecosystems and the distribution of life on Earth, we integrate data and knowledge of the ecology of species with evolutionary history and information on the geography, geology and climate of our planet. Research methods include the integration of data from diverse sources and the statistical analysis and modelling of large biodiversity datasets (macroecology, island biogeography, species interactions, and biodiversity monitoring), analyses of remote sensing data from satellite imagery and high resolution Light Detection And Ranging (satellite remote sensing, LiDAR, geodiversity), and the GIS visualization, processing and modelling of geo-ecological data (all themes).

For more details please have a look at our research projects and research themes.