Our research lies at the intersection between Ecology and Evolution. We aim at addressing the short-term evolutionary changes in populations, in ecologically-relevant scenarios. Spider mites are our main research model, tiny spider-like arthropods that cause severe damage to several crop plants (tomato, bean, cucumber, citrus, strawberry, etc). We use a combination of behavioural and ecological lab experiments, coupled with field sampling and Experimental Evolution, which allows following the evolutionary trajectories of populations in real time. 
In ACE we want to understand how interactions between different trophic levels shape the stability and populations dynamics and how in turn, these dynamics affect (and are affected by) adaptation of organisms to new environments. We typically combine experimental evolution, with models of population dynamics, fitness landscape theory and phenotypic and genomic evolution.
In HPI, we are interested in understanding the interaction between spider mites and their host plants from a host-parasite lens, addressing the ecological and evolutionary consequences of their interactions with organic or metal-based plant defences. We also study co-infections, in which plants are attacked by more than one parasite species. In particular, we are interested in identifying coexistence mechanisms, and their impact in the persistence and impact of coinfections. We often use the framework of modern coexistence theory and experimental evolution, giving particular emphasis to the consequences of individual trait variation.
In EA we mainly focus on how organisms with a strong impact in agroecosystems respond to multiple stressors. We explore this mainly from an evolutionary perspective using spider mites, important cosmopolitan and polyphagous crop pests. Currently, we are trying to understand how selection pressures such as temperature, pesticides and the quality of the environment (host plant) shape phenotype and genotype expression both alone and concurrently. 
If you are interested in developing a master project with us take a look at the Projects section and contact us!