Research

Research Interests

I am an evolutionary biologist focused on biodiversity, especially on plant biogeography, Island Biology and conservation. I am especially interested in understanding the patterns and processes that model the distribution of biodiversity on Earth. For this, during my research I have used state of the art bio/phylogeographic reconstruction approaches with a particular interest in cutting-edge analytical methods.

Some of my recent interests have been focused on:

1. understanding the effects of extinction mediated by climate change in shaping biodiversity patterns at continental level;

2. assembling bio/phylogeographical patterns and processes in endangered biodiversity hotspots;

3. finding refugia and cradles for critically endangered diversity;

4. understanding catastrophic volcanic extinction, continental rifting and topographic complexity in the spatiotemporal evolution of populations;

5. finding lineage-specific climatic niche driven by tempo of vicariance;

6. developing “The Theory of Island Biogeography” between oceanic and sky-islands

7. deciphering the consequences of polyploidization: from single traits to population dynamics.

Research Interests

I am especially interested in the dissemination of science both to the general public and to the scientific community. Along with other researchers, I am a part of a dynamic network of scientists and environmental managers who have Island Biology, Evolution, Conservation, and Biogeography at its central interest.

Antarctic Biogeography

Antarctic Biogeography

I am working in the biogeography of sub-Antarctic islands and its response to climate change, working collaboratively with Stellenbosch University,  Johannesburg University and Macquarie University, as well as other universities and research centers, especially in the Southern Hemisphere.

Macroevolution and microevolution in island systems

My thesis was focused on macroevolution and microevolution in islands systems. I focused on understading the effects of climate change on patterns of biodiversity distribution and the mechanisms or factors underlying them.
Conservation

Conservation

I have a MSc in Conservation BIology from the University Complutense of Madrid. I have developed a wide experience both with fauna and flora conservation and performed numerous plant and animal conservation, scientific and technical reports. Also I performed numerous environmental volunteering, both as a volunteer and as a monitor and guide.