Ever since I was a kid I’ve been fascinated by nature. It started with birdwatching, but my interests soon spread to flora, fauna and landscape ecology. Now I mostly use my ecological and species knowledge to understand patterns at the community/ecosystem level. By increasing our knowledge on ecosystem functioning, we can better protect and restore them in the future! I try to achieve this through my research, but also through my communication of this research.
Currently, I’m a PhD-candidate at Experimental Plant Ecology group (Radboud University) under supervision of prof. Hans de Kroon. In my research I study how plant-pollinator networks can be used to explain pollinator community formation and can help to inform insect conservation/restoration projects and understand outcomes. My main study object are dikes and throughout spring and summer you can frequently find me there running around with my insect net. For a more detailed description of my research, see the research page.
Next to research, I was given a year extension to my PhD for teaching duties. Currently, I teach the first years bachelor course Biodiversity (flora part). In addition I supervise students and give guest lectures. For a detailed description of my teaching vision, see the teaching page.
Next to my PhD I can be frequently found in the field. Going outside to photograph and explore nature remains, and probably always will be, one of my biggest hobbies. In addition to that I’m spending my ‘free time’ on communication about nature, e.g. via the Crossbill Guides Foundation where I’m a freelance writer or by giving nature excursions for various groups of people.