In 2015 I received my PhD degree in evolutionary biology at Lund University, where I worked on speciation in birds. Being a keen birdwatcher and naturalist, I love to explore new environments when traveling. Somehow, to my great pleasure, I tend to end up on islands frequently! After my PhD I left the air for a while and went under the sea surface to explore the development and evolution of the snout-like mouths of pipefish and seahorses. In my research trajectory, I have now crawled up onto islands again, studying the evolution of flight loss in island rails, among other things. I recently took up the post as Senior Curator of Birds at National Museums Scotland (UK) and additionally remain affiliated with the Natural History Museum (UK) as Senior Curator.

Enjoying a the sand dunes of Fraser Island after a climb.

My interest in the nature and my care for the environment has also led to extensive voluntary work in many organisations and bird observatories. For example, there is the fantastic Kvismare Bird Observatory (the best mud in the world) and Ottenby Bird Observatory (with the longest consecutive trapping series in the world), for both of which I have also been a long-term board member. Likewise, since I strive to improve and make a difference, I was an active PhD student representative in various university boards and organs.

When not in the lab, in the woods, or by my desk, I devote some time to music. Between 2005 and 2014 I was a member of the internationally reputable male-voice chamber choir Svanholm Singers; recording, performing, touring, and competing. What time is left I spend with my family and friends, fairly frequently in combination with good food and good drinks.

See my short version CV if you are interested.