I started my PhD, supervised by Astrid T. Groot, in August 2016. My research focuses on chemical sexual communication in moths to better understand mating preferences and resulting sexual selection.

In a laboratory setting, I investigate mate choice in the tobacco budworm Heliothis virescens (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae). This generalist insect species is a major pest in North America, feeding on crop plants like tobacco, soy bean, and cotton. While the female sex pheromone attracts males over a long range, the male emits pheromone in proximity to the female. My aim is to determine the effect of male traits involved in close-range courtship on mate choice and reproductive success.

Besides my doctoral research, I am enthusiastic about contributing to a vibrant community of PhD candiates to create a supportive work environment. For this purpose, I joined the IBED PhD/Postdoc council in 2016 with role to facilitate an active dialogue between the PhDs/Postdocs at IBED and the PE&RC graduate school. In 2019, I chaired the PhD council of the PE&RC graduate school (PPC) and was a member of the board. Since Novemeber 2019, I work part-time as a PhD programme coordinator at the PE&RC graduate school. This gives me the great opportunity to broaden my skill set even further.