The Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research

The Department of Ecological Dynamics investigates how individuals, populations or species communities "behave" in space and time and under various anthropogenically modified environmental conditions. We seek understanding on what affects the viability of animal populations along a gradient of anthropogenically altered landscapes and habitats.

In particular, through statistical modelling and dynamic simulations we aim to advance theory and concepts in ecology and evolution, and to promote the development of computational and analytical toolkits. Based on this, we make predictions about the future states of populations and communities and improve concepts for nature conservation at the landscape scale. To transfer our research findings, we work closely together with local conservationists and stakeholders.