Current work:

Overall, my research focuses on understanding how aquatic and terrestrial plants adapt to environmental change, particularly abiotic factors, through greenhouse and field experiments. Currently, as a PhD candidate at the Plant Ecology department of the University of Hohenheim in Stuttgart, I am studying Trapa natans (water caltrop), an aquatic plant species which is endangered in part of its native range, partly invasive in its non-native range and simultaneously may be used as a multi-purpose crop. Specifically, I experimentally research the effects of main abiotic factors of macrophyte growth (namely, nutrient, temperature and light availability) on the water caltrop within a hydroponic greenhouse system set-up.

In parallel, at the University of Münster, I contribute to teaching of flora-focused modules. Within the “Field Biology, Botany” module, I lead botanical excursions, supervise the practical course on the “Morphology and Flower Structure of Seed-Bearing Plants”, correct herbariums and conduct related examinations. Additionally, I assist in the practical course of the module “Evolution and Biodiversity of Plants”.

Education:

During my Bachelor studies in Biology and English at the University of Münster and my Master in Biology at Radboud University (Nijmegen, Netherlands), I developed a strong interest in experimental plant science, gaining practical experience through my Bachelor thesis as well as an international research internship and Master thesis (in Ecuador).