The main goal of our research is to identify the major mechanisms involved in the degradation of ecosystems and in the decline of threatened species so as to propose sound conservation schemes to restore these ecosystems and populations in order to stop biodiversity erosion. We hope so to bridge the gap between research and practice - which is one of the major challenges of Conservation Biology

We conduct mostly practice-oriented research on threatened biodiversity, with a major focus on farmland and Alpine ecosystems. We work both in community ecology (grasslands and forests) and population biology (from insects to birds and bats, especially of endangered, emblematic species).

Various modern methods are applied to extract the essential information, mostly from data sampled in the field: spatial modelling, habitat selection approaches, population dynamical studies, genetic analyses. We also conduct experiments under real natural conditions, for instance when testing the effects of different habitat management options. Results lead to tangible guidelines for conservation management. Joint ventures with practitioners guarantee that the recommendations drawn from our research are effectively implemented to promote biodiversity.