CURRENT RESEARCH
My PhD focuses on the Rungan, an unstudied mosaic forest in Central Kalimantan, Indonesia (Borneo). Until recently, this area was thought to have little ecological or conservation value; however, preliminary surveys found that it contains the largest remaining unprotected orangutan population, as well as numerous other species of conservation concern.
My work aims to assess the Rungan's mammal biodiversity and understand the relationship between landscape heterogeneity and mammal diversity. I'll use camera traps to survey mammal biodiversity along with bespoke methods specifically for Bornean orangutans (Pongo pygmaeus wurmbii) and white-bearded gibbons (Hylobates albibarbis) to estimate their density and population size. As well, I'll identify and map the forest's sub-habitats, model the effects of land-use change, and classify areas of ecological and conservation importance.
This work is done in conjunction with Borneo Nature Foundation. From this work we hope to establish a conservation area in the Rungan.
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My PhD is funded by the Vice-Chancellor's Scholarship for Postgraduate Research awarded by University of Exeter; the Doctoral Postgraduate Scholarship awarded by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC) of Canada; and the Asia Seed Grant awarded by Cleveland Metroparks Zoo (USA).
RESEARCH INTERESTS
Mammal biodiversity, population estimation, and distribution
I'm interested in evaluating mammal biodiversity in understudied tropical regions to better understand species' distributions and suitable habitat and improve population estimates for vulnerable species. I'm addressing this as part of my PhD.
Relationship between habitat heterogeneity and mammal biodiversity
I aim to improve our understanding of the role of habitat heterogeneity and landscape structure on mammal biodiversity and community structure. By using the Rungan, Central Kalimantan as a study system, I hope to improve our theoretical understanding of ecosystem dynamics and biodiversity in tropical ecosystems as a whole.
Conservation and preservation of tropical forests
I'm interested in identifying areas and species of conservation concern and working with local governments and non-profits to protect these areas and species. By improving knowledge of tropical ecosystems, I hope to strengthen the capacity for well-informed scientifically-based decisions so as to aid in the challenge of balancing environmental preservation with economic growth.
Impacts of anthropogenic activity on mammals and tropical ecosystems
I'm interested in modelling the impacts of land-use change and climate change on tropical forests and mammals. I'd like to investigate how these changes will influence ecosystem dynamics such as food web structure, predator-prey dynamics, seed dispersal, and fruiting regularity and abundance.