My research is centered on the biotic and abiotic factors determining patterns of species diversity and the distribution of species, both in the tropics and in Europe. Specific research fields include:

• Diversity, evolution, and macroecology of ferns worldwide
• Taxonomic studies of ferns
• Ecophysiology and mycorrhization of ferns
• Conservation of Swiss ferns, in collaboration with the Swiss Fern Society
• Biogeography and ecology of Andean treelines
• Temporal changes in the Central European flora
• Diversity and evolution of epiphytic plants, bromeliads, and Andean palms

Publications

The following list provides a short insight into the breadth of possible topics for MSc projects. I am happy to consider individual interests and ideas.

• Genomic studies on isolated and threatened populations of the genus Potentilla in the Alps
• GIS- based studies on temporal changes of the flora of the Canton Zurich
• Global studies on the diversity and traits of ferns (GIS-based)
• Phylogeny-based studies on trait evolution in the fern family Thelypteridaceae
• Experimental studies on the role of antheridiogens on the competition between fern gametophytes

We also offer MSc thesis projects in applied plant conservation in the seed bank.