Presentation
I am a biologist interested in understanding how species proliferate and change over time. My work uses molecular tools and fieldwork approaches to investigate evolutionary and ecological patterns and processes at both the individual and population level.
Much of this work has focused on island birds (using extinct and extant taxa) where I investigate the causes and consequences of adaptive (and non-adaptive) genetic variation to understand the mechanisms driving genetic and phenotypic differentiation and, ultimately, avian radiations.
In addition, I am also interested to investigate the ecological and evolutionary role of microbes (pathogens and microbiome) on their island avian hosts.
Most of this research is focused on the Macaronesian region (Azores, Madeira, Selvagens, Canary Islands and Cape Verde), and nearby continental areas both Iberian Peninsula and north Africa.
I also collaborate with other colleagues to shed light on evolutionary dynamics and biogeography of alpine grasshoppers in the Cantabrian Mountains; the role of birds and bats in pest control and seed dispersal in several farming areas; and the genomic architecture of migration using several avian non-model systems.
Teaching
Courses
I am currently teaching in two undergraduate degrees: Biology and Teaching Profession.
Biology (at Faculty of Biology, Oviedo)
- Environmental assessment (Practical exercises)
Teaching Profession (at Faculty of Teaching)
- Environmental Sciences (Theory and Practical)
Research Lines
Latest news
New paper in press
Distinct patterns of genetic variation at low-recombining genomic regions represent haplotype structure.
Sep 2nd, 2024
New papper in press
Museomics help resolving the phylogeny of snofinches (Aves, Passeridae, Montifringilla and allies)
Jun 26th, 2024
New paper posted
Apex predators can structure ecosystems through trophic cascades: linking the frugivorous behaviour and seed-dispersal patterns of mesocarnivores.
May 14th, 2024