The main theme of my research is the evolution and chemical ecology of plant-insect interactions. I study the processes by which insects manipulate plant physiology and development, sometimes leading to the formation of structures known as galls. My work on this subject can be grouped into three interdependent lines of research. The first axis involves research into the molecular mechanisms involved in insect gall formation. The second axis involves studying the evolution of the gall life style and its adaptive consequences in insects. Finally, the third axis of my work involves the systematics of the Gracillariidae (Lepidoptera) and Cynipidae (Hymenoptera).
First axis
Second axis
Third axis