I am a weed ecologist which means that I study the interaction of weeds and other arable plants with their biotic and abiotic environments. My aim is to improve our understanding of interactions within agroecosystems and to develop cropping systems based on the systematic and integrated use of ecological mechanisms rather than direct interventions such as herbicides and fertilizers.
Presentation
My research aims to investigate the effects of agricultural practices on agroecosystem functioning. Specifically, I focus on how cropping system diversification affects the composition of arable plant communities and subsequently their functional diversity. In my research, I use Functional Interpretation of Botanical Surveys (FIBS) to describe how agricultural practices shape weed communities. To translate this basic knowledge into agricultural practice, I use participatory methods in which farmers, extension agents, and researchers work together to design and evaluate cropping systems in short- and long-term field experiments. In addition to my core research areas, I have a broad interest in the environmental, social, and economic implications of agroecosystem management.
EcoServ: Long-term evaluation of agroecosystem functioning along a cropping system diversification gradient (long-term trial financed by the NJ faculty). (2021 - )
Background
since 2023 Senior Lecturer (Docent) in Plant Ecology, SLU Department of Crop Production Ecology
2019 - 2023 Associate Senior Lecturer in Plant Ecology, SLU Department of Crop Production Ecology
2015 - 2019 Postdoctor at Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Department of Crop Production Ecology
2012 - 2015 Postdoctor at University of Hohenheim, Institute for Phytomedicine
2012 Ph.D. in Agricultural Sciences, University of Hohenheim, Germany
2008 Master in Agricultural Sciences, University of Hohenheim, Germany, Major: Crop Science
