Our Lab Members
Professor Shai Meiri
Lab Manager
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Post Doctoral fellows
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Dr. Roberta Graboski
Since April 2022 As an evolutionary biologist, my interests fall within two broad areas: (1) understanding species diversity through intensive fieldwork and collections-based research, with a focus on Squamata; and (2) application of phylogenetic, high-throughput sequencing, distributional data, high-resolution X-Ray computed tomography (HRXCT), biomechanics, and geometric morphometrics techniques to infer processes in macroevolution. At Shai Meiri's Lab, I have been developing a study on the hidden diversity of Middle East Reptiles, with a focus on Israeli diversity, using molecular and morphological datasets. E-mail: r[email protected] Website: https://robertagraboski9.wixsite.com/roberta-graboski |
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Dr. Tao Liang
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Since Feb 2024 (or 2022?)
I love macroecology, So I am here (again) Co-supervisor: Prof. Uri Roll, Ben-Gurion University Dr. Shay Rotics & Prof. Eran Levin, Tel Aviv University I did reptile macroecology at regional scale (mainly within China) during my PhD (a lonely journey). Now I study beta diversity of global squamates and other terrestrial vertebrates (under the supervision of Prof. Roll). Under the supervision of Dr. Rotics, Prof. Levin, I also study the movement, digestion and metabolism of Spalerosophis diadema. And both, of course, are under Prof. Meiri's supervision. Email: [email protected] Web: https://taoliang.weebly.com/ |
Ph.D. Students
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Shahar Dubiner
PhD: since October 2020
I study the physiological ecology of Israeli reptiles. My research interests wander around the meeting points of thermal biology, metabolism, hibernation, morphology, diet, biological rhythms, biogeography, and conservation. Co-supervisor: Dr. Eran Levin, Tel Aviv University e-mail: [email protected] |
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Tal Raz
PhD: since October 2020
Global conservation of reptiles, addressing knowledge shortfalls. co-supervised by Dr. Uri Roll (Ben Gurion University). My main interests are conservation, spatial ecology, and human impact on ecological systems and biodiversity. e-mail: [email protected] |
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R. Chaitanya
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PhD student: since January 2021
I was a computer science engineer by profession for about 15 years and somewhere down the road, I developed a keen interest in evolutionary biology, systematics and biogeography. My two great interests are evolution and algorithms. Someday, I hope to write algorithms that can better explain patterns in evolution.
In the past, I've worked on the systematics and biogeography of squamate reptiles from the Indian sub-continent. My PhD aims to answer questions related to the distribution, diversity and evolutionary origins of 'Flying dragons' (Draco) from peninsular India.
e-mail: [email protected]
e-mail: chaitanyar@mail.tau.ac.il
I was a computer science engineer by profession for about 15 years and somewhere down the road, I developed a keen interest in evolutionary biology, systematics and biogeography. My two great interests are evolution and algorithms. Someday, I hope to write algorithms that can better explain patterns in evolution.
In the past, I've worked on the systematics and biogeography of squamate reptiles from the Indian sub-continent. My PhD aims to answer questions related to the distribution, diversity and evolutionary origins of 'Flying dragons' (Draco) from peninsular India.
e-mail: [email protected]
e-mail: chaitanyar@mail.tau.ac.il
Anna Zimin
PhD student: since November 2021
Co-supervisor: Uri Roll (Ben-Gurion University)
M.Sc. October 2019-2021
The selective forces behind the evolution of viviparity in squamates
Co-supervisor: Uri Roll (Ben-Gurion University)
A bird watcher, ringer (bander) & surveyor.
Although my experience is mostly ornithological, I am very much interested in exploring all vertebrates, as well as other taxa.
Before starting my M.Sc. in ecology, I've participated in several ornithological field research projects, starting near home and gradually expanding my ventures into the more remote corners of the Palearctic. With growing experience in fieldwork and the duration of each stay (reaching the span of entire migratory seasons), a new perspective on the temporal and spatial ecological dynamics started to reveal itself to me, inspiring to seek a deeper understanding through the tools of meticulous scientific research. Gaining these tools and using them for a better understanding of our ever-changing natural world is thus the main motivation behind my academic endeavors.
My M.Sc. work focused on the selective forces behind the evolution of viviparity in squamates, under the supervision of Shai and Dr. Uri Roll (Ben-Gurion University of the Negev).
My current work involves the diversity of ecological and morphological traits of squamates.
e-mail: annazimin[at]mail.tau.ac.il
Co-supervisor: Uri Roll (Ben-Gurion University)
M.Sc. October 2019-2021
The selective forces behind the evolution of viviparity in squamates
Co-supervisor: Uri Roll (Ben-Gurion University)
A bird watcher, ringer (bander) & surveyor.
Although my experience is mostly ornithological, I am very much interested in exploring all vertebrates, as well as other taxa.
Before starting my M.Sc. in ecology, I've participated in several ornithological field research projects, starting near home and gradually expanding my ventures into the more remote corners of the Palearctic. With growing experience in fieldwork and the duration of each stay (reaching the span of entire migratory seasons), a new perspective on the temporal and spatial ecological dynamics started to reveal itself to me, inspiring to seek a deeper understanding through the tools of meticulous scientific research. Gaining these tools and using them for a better understanding of our ever-changing natural world is thus the main motivation behind my academic endeavors.
My M.Sc. work focused on the selective forces behind the evolution of viviparity in squamates, under the supervision of Shai and Dr. Uri Roll (Ben-Gurion University of the Negev).
My current work involves the diversity of ecological and morphological traits of squamates.
e-mail: annazimin[at]mail.tau.ac.il
Jacob Dembitzer
M.Sc. March 2020 - September 2021
My research incorporates zoology and archaeology in order to understand the factors behind Pleistocene extinctions. I am also interested in what traits do species that survived this period have in common which made them resilient to anthropogenic forces or climate change. I hope that this will shed some light on which species are best adapted to handle anthropogenic forces and climate change today.
In March 2020 I began my M.S.c under the supervision of Prof. Shai Meiri and Prof. Ran Barkai analyzing 1.5 million years of hominid hunting and species extinction in the Southern Levant.
e-mail: [email protected]
My research incorporates zoology and archaeology in order to understand the factors behind Pleistocene extinctions. I am also interested in what traits do species that survived this period have in common which made them resilient to anthropogenic forces or climate change. I hope that this will shed some light on which species are best adapted to handle anthropogenic forces and climate change today.
In March 2020 I began my M.S.c under the supervision of Prof. Shai Meiri and Prof. Ran Barkai analyzing 1.5 million years of hominid hunting and species extinction in the Southern Levant.
e-mail: [email protected]
Ben Shermeister
PhD student since May 2023
My main interests include reptile conservation, ecology, extinction risk assessments, and studying human impacts on reptiles. Currently, I am reassessing and updating the Red List of reptiles in Israel. In the future, I intend to focus on conservation management within military bases and training areas.
email: [email protected]
My main interests include reptile conservation, ecology, extinction risk assessments, and studying human impacts on reptiles. Currently, I am reassessing and updating the Red List of reptiles in Israel. In the future, I intend to focus on conservation management within military bases and training areas.
email: [email protected]
PhD student since May 2023
My main interests include reptile conservation, ecology, extinction risk assessments, and studying human impacts on reptiles. Currently, I am reassessing and updating the Red List of reptiles in Israel. In the future, I intend to focus on conservation management within military bases and training areas.
e-mail: bens@mail.tau.ac.il
My main interests include reptile conservation, ecology, extinction risk assessments, and studying human impacts on reptiles. Currently, I am reassessing and updating the Red List of reptiles in Israel. In the future, I intend to focus on conservation management within military bases and training areas.
e-mail: bens@mail.tau.ac.il
Yan Liberman
PhD student since May 2024
Co supervisor: Uri Roll (Ben-Gurion University)
M.Sc. October 2022-2024
Co supervisor: Frida Ben-Ami (Tel-Aviv University)
Biodiversity in ephemeral pools
Science and biology was always my topic of interest, but picking ecology over the other biological sciences was more of a spontaneous choice. In hindsight I now know that this was the best choice I could have made.
I currently research the functional morphology of reptiles and potential biases in the methods we use to measure and analyze it.
My M.Sc. tested the unique contribution of ephemeral pools to bird and reptile biodiversity and the efficacy of artificial cover objects as a method to further improve said biodiversity for reptiles.
My non scientific hobby is baking, which now that I think about it probably counts as chemistry.
e-mail: [email protected]
Co supervisor: Uri Roll (Ben-Gurion University)
M.Sc. October 2022-2024
Co supervisor: Frida Ben-Ami (Tel-Aviv University)
Biodiversity in ephemeral pools
Science and biology was always my topic of interest, but picking ecology over the other biological sciences was more of a spontaneous choice. In hindsight I now know that this was the best choice I could have made.
I currently research the functional morphology of reptiles and potential biases in the methods we use to measure and analyze it.
My M.Sc. tested the unique contribution of ephemeral pools to bird and reptile biodiversity and the efficacy of artificial cover objects as a method to further improve said biodiversity for reptiles.
My non scientific hobby is baking, which now that I think about it probably counts as chemistry.
e-mail: [email protected]
M.Sc. Students
Timrat Laniado
M.Sc. since October 2020
Global conservation of reptiles
Co-supervisor: Uri Roll (Ben-Gurion University)
Biologist and chemical engineer, passionate about nature conservation and statistics.
I have worked as an air quality engineer in the Haifa bay Municipality.
Love bird watching and traveling around the world to remote locations.
In October 2020 I started my M.Sc. on global conservation of reptiles under the supervision of Shai and Dr. Uri Roll (Ben-Gurion University).
In my research, I am studying the effect of taxonomic changes, splitting and lumping, have on reptile conservation.
e-mail: [email protected]
Global conservation of reptiles
Co-supervisor: Uri Roll (Ben-Gurion University)
Biologist and chemical engineer, passionate about nature conservation and statistics.
I have worked as an air quality engineer in the Haifa bay Municipality.
Love bird watching and traveling around the world to remote locations.
In October 2020 I started my M.Sc. on global conservation of reptiles under the supervision of Shai and Dr. Uri Roll (Ben-Gurion University).
In my research, I am studying the effect of taxonomic changes, splitting and lumping, have on reptile conservation.
e-mail: [email protected]
Jonathan Ben Simon
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M.Sc. since October 2021
Comparing biological traits of extinction and threat Co-supervisor: Dr. Uri Roll (Ben-Gurion University) I have dreamt about becoming a zoologist since the age of four even though I grew up as an urban child in the center of Tel-Aviv. During high school I enrolled in The Odyssey Program of the Future Scientists Center and completed my B.Sc. in Biology with Emphasis on Ecology and Evolution, at Tel-Aviv University. While doing my undergrad studies I assisted many ecologists in field and lab work and gained some experience (and had a lot of fun). I love traveling, wildlife watching and nature photography. I work for the Society for the Protection of Nature in Israel, and for the Israeli Naval Medical Institute. My intentions for the future are to use science for nature conservation and to protect endangered species and environments. E-mail: [email protected] |
Molly Buchanan
M.Sc. since October 2023
Taxonomy of Phoenicolacerta laevis (לטאה זריזה)
Co-supervisor: Dr. Karin Tamar (Steinhardt Museum) and Dr. Roberta Graboski (Post-doc fellow)
I grew up in Ohio in the U.S., constantly surrounded by wildlife and I knew I wanted to be around animals and research them. When I came to Israel, I discovered Tel Aviv University and the M.Sc. program. Shai proposed a project and I loved the idea of studying lizards in the collections in the museum. I previously worked in chemistry, anthropology and genetics labs and I really enjoy research and especially biology.
Tal Vardi
M.Sc. since October 2024
Biases and trends in descriptions of new squamate species
My love for animals started when I saw my first nature documentaries in preschool. Nowadays between traying to figure out if mythological dragons are lizards or not, I focus on newly described species and if they are as real as actual dragons are (and not the komodo kind). Other then that, I love spending my time in nature museums both as a guide in one, and as an observer in others. Learning how animals function is one of my most greatest passions.
Biases and trends in descriptions of new squamate species
My love for animals started when I saw my first nature documentaries in preschool. Nowadays between traying to figure out if mythological dragons are lizards or not, I focus on newly described species and if they are as real as actual dragons are (and not the komodo kind). Other then that, I love spending my time in nature museums both as a guide in one, and as an observer in others. Learning how animals function is one of my most greatest passions.
Ronen Davidson
M.Sc. since October 2023
M.Sc. since October 2023
Special programme students (unclear if real or imaginary)
Juan D. Schvainberg
readers are urged to edit this part multiple times, and see how it eats itself
M.Sc. or PhD or something in the lab since anyone can remember
Some say he is the perfect hybrid of a thorny devil, and emperor penguin and an ardvaark.
Thesis subject: Possible hidden diversity within the species complex "Animalia".
He has yet to add his updated picture. but we are told he looks just like his grandfather. Who was invisible.
E-mail: [email protected] but he likes to communicate by Fax: 07-007-0007
Some say he is the perfect hybrid of a thorny devil, and emperor penguin and an ardvaark.
Thesis subject: Possible hidden diversity within the species complex "Animalia".
He has yet to add his updated picture. but we are told he looks just like his grandfather. Who was invisible.
E-mail: [email protected] but he likes to communicate by Fax: 07-007-0007
Alumni
Erez Maza
Dr. Reut Vardi
in the lab: 2021-2024
Reut is now a postdoc at Oxford University, with Rich Grenyer
see https://www.seh.ox.ac.uk/people/reut-vardi
My main interests are urban ecology, animal behaviour and physiology, and conservation culturomics.
Currently I am working on physiological adaptations of lizards to different habitats (with Shai Meiri and Eran Levin), and assessing land-use changes effects on reptile distribution (with Shai Meiri and Uri Roll).
E-mail: [email protected]
Twitter: @ReutVardi
in the lab: 2021-2024
Reut is now a postdoc at Oxford University, with Rich Grenyer
see https://www.seh.ox.ac.uk/people/reut-vardi
My main interests are urban ecology, animal behaviour and physiology, and conservation culturomics.
Currently I am working on physiological adaptations of lizards to different habitats (with Shai Meiri and Eran Levin), and assessing land-use changes effects on reptile distribution (with Shai Meiri and Uri Roll).
E-mail: [email protected]
Twitter: @ReutVardi
Dr. Marco Antonio Ribeiro Junior
in the lab: 2018-2022
Biogeography, taxonomy and conservation of the South American lizards.
I am member of the project “Biogeography, Biodiversity and Conservation of Cis-andean Squamate Reptiles” that documents and interprets spatial variations in endemism and phylogenetic diversity, testing if the bio-geographical patterns are properly represented in the current protected area system in South America. At the lab and today Marco is studying species-complexes of cryptic taxa widely distributed in Eastern Europe, Western Asia and Northern Africa such as Tropiocolotes, Chalcides, and Telescopus.
Biogeography, taxonomy and conservation of the South American lizards.
I am member of the project “Biogeography, Biodiversity and Conservation of Cis-andean Squamate Reptiles” that documents and interprets spatial variations in endemism and phylogenetic diversity, testing if the bio-geographical patterns are properly represented in the current protected area system in South America. At the lab and today Marco is studying species-complexes of cryptic taxa widely distributed in Eastern Europe, Western Asia and Northern Africa such as Tropiocolotes, Chalcides, and Telescopus.
Dr. Gopal Murali
postdoc, 2019-2022
Drivers of species diversification rates and endemism in Squamates. co-supervisor: Dr. Uri Roll (Ben-Gurion University)
E-mail: [email protected], Google scholar
I am an engineer turned evolutionary ecologist fascinated by reptiles and have a broad interest in many areas of ecology and evolutionary biology. For my PhD dissertation, I investigated how animals use colour patterns against predation, especially when in motion using a range of tools, including approaches from experimental psychology, digital image processing, and comparative phylogenetic methods. Additionally, I have independently conducted field experiments to understand the determinants of contest outcome and multimodal signaling in dancing frogs from the southern Western Ghats. During my graduate studies, I have also developed a keen interest in macroecology, in specific, mechanisms governing species diversity. Currently, in collaboration with Uri Roll (Ben Gurion University of the Negev, where I am based), I aim to understand drivers of species diversification rates and endemism in Squamates.
Email: [email protected], twitter, Google scholar
Drivers of species diversification rates and endemism in Squamates. co-supervisor: Dr. Uri Roll (Ben-Gurion University)
E-mail: [email protected], Google scholar
I am an engineer turned evolutionary ecologist fascinated by reptiles and have a broad interest in many areas of ecology and evolutionary biology. For my PhD dissertation, I investigated how animals use colour patterns against predation, especially when in motion using a range of tools, including approaches from experimental psychology, digital image processing, and comparative phylogenetic methods. Additionally, I have independently conducted field experiments to understand the determinants of contest outcome and multimodal signaling in dancing frogs from the southern Western Ghats. During my graduate studies, I have also developed a keen interest in macroecology, in specific, mechanisms governing species diversity. Currently, in collaboration with Uri Roll (Ben Gurion University of the Negev, where I am based), I aim to understand drivers of species diversification rates and endemism in Squamates.
Email: [email protected], twitter, Google scholar
Dr. Gabriel Henrique de Oliveira Caetano
postdoc 2020-2023
I am working with professors Uri Roll and Shai Meiri on new methods to assess the conservation status of reptiles around the world, including automated assessments using machine learning and the development of a new extinction risk index, which takes into account threats projected for the future. My main interests are biogeography, ecophysiology, biostatistics and bioinformatics.
E-mail: [email protected]
postdoc 2020-2023
I am working with professors Uri Roll and Shai Meiri on new methods to assess the conservation status of reptiles around the world, including automated assessments using machine learning and the development of a new extinction risk index, which takes into account threats projected for the future. My main interests are biogeography, ecophysiology, biostatistics and bioinformatics.
E-mail: [email protected]
Dr. Guy Sion
In the lab since 2017
Main research interests:
(a) Behavioural ecology. Focusing on social status and risk-taking strategy.
(b) Brain laterality and behaviour of vertebrates, focusing on reptiles and amphibia.
(c) Digit ratio 2:4 and digit asymmetry as markers for hormone levels and brain plasticity and laterality.
Guy is doing his postdoc on brain laterality and plasticity, focusing on risk behaviour of reptiles and amphibia.
E-mail: G[email protected]
In the lab since 2017
Main research interests:
(a) Behavioural ecology. Focusing on social status and risk-taking strategy.
(b) Brain laterality and behaviour of vertebrates, focusing on reptiles and amphibia.
(c) Digit ratio 2:4 and digit asymmetry as markers for hormone levels and brain plasticity and laterality.
Guy is doing his postdoc on brain laterality and plasticity, focusing on risk behaviour of reptiles and amphibia.
E-mail: G[email protected]
Dr. Tali Magory Cohen
at the lab: December 2019 - March 2021
Living on the edge: cryptic diversity in peripheral populations of horseshoe and slit-faced bats, and other stuff. co-supervised by Dr. Eran Levin (Tel Aviv University)
I am interested in how species and ecosystems respond to acute environmental changes with an emphasis on those induced by human impact. I study these questions by exploring animal behavior, evolutionary ecology and functional genomics, studying birds and mammals around the world.
Find me here:
Email
Website
Twitter
Google Scholar
Tali is currently a postdoctoral researcher duing a fascinating project in Peru under a joint University of California Davis and University of Copenhagen (host: Tom Gilbert) venture.
Living on the edge: cryptic diversity in peripheral populations of horseshoe and slit-faced bats, and other stuff. co-supervised by Dr. Eran Levin (Tel Aviv University)
I am interested in how species and ecosystems respond to acute environmental changes with an emphasis on those induced by human impact. I study these questions by exploring animal behavior, evolutionary ecology and functional genomics, studying birds and mammals around the world.
Find me here:
Website
Google Scholar
Tali is currently a postdoctoral researcher duing a fascinating project in Peru under a joint University of California Davis and University of Copenhagen (host: Tom Gilbert) venture.
Dr. Karin Tamar
In the lab: 2010-2017 - and 2019-2021
Karin did her PhD and a postdoc with us, on the phylogeny and biogeographic history of (mostly) desert reptiles, co hosted by Salvador Carranza(!) (IBE-CSIC-UPF, Barcelona, Spain)
She is now a researcher and the collection manager of amphibians, mammals and reptiles at the Steinhardt Museum of Natural History. See her webpage at:
https://smnh.tau.ac.il/en/research/scientific-staff/karin-tamar/
e-mail: [email protected]
Karin did her PhD and a postdoc with us, on the phylogeny and biogeographic history of (mostly) desert reptiles, co hosted by Salvador Carranza(!) (IBE-CSIC-UPF, Barcelona, Spain)
She is now a researcher and the collection manager of amphibians, mammals and reptiles at the Steinhardt Museum of Natural History. See her webpage at:
https://smnh.tau.ac.il/en/research/scientific-staff/karin-tamar/
e-mail: [email protected]
Dr. Alex Slavenko
October 2013 - February 2020
Biogeography and evolution of the herpetofauna of Papua New Guinea across elevational gradients. And other stuff. Quite a lot of other stuff actually
see it all in his webpage
Alex was a postdoc at Gavin Thomas's lab at the University of Sheffield!
He was obviously convicted of serious crimes since he has now been exiled to the crown's penal colony in the Terra Australia Incognita.
e-mail: [email protected]
Biogeography and evolution of the herpetofauna of Papua New Guinea across elevational gradients. And other stuff. Quite a lot of other stuff actually
see it all in his webpage
Alex was a postdoc at Gavin Thomas's lab at the University of Sheffield!
He was obviously convicted of serious crimes since he has now been exiled to the crown's penal colony in the Terra Australia Incognita.
e-mail: [email protected]
Dr. Yuval Itescu (aka, prof. Ipescu, Herr Dr. Hrescu etc.)
Yuval was a part of the lab in 2010-2018. After a spell in Freie Universität Berlin doing his Post-Doc on urban biodiversity and invasive species in Jonathan Jeschke's group (http://www.jeschke.tk/) he is now a senior lecturer in the University of Haifa
He still likes very much to play with souvlaki-devouring insular reptiles though.
He is the leader of the new, accurate concept of bird taxonomy recognizing six species globally (sparrows, eagles, ducks, parrots, owls and chickens)
check out his cool Website
e-mail
Google scholar
ResearchGate
Twitter
He still likes very much to play with souvlaki-devouring insular reptiles though.
He is the leader of the new, accurate concept of bird taxonomy recognizing six species globally (sparrows, eagles, ducks, parrots, owls and chickens)
check out his cool Website
Google scholar
ResearchGate
Chalcides guentheri; photo by Tao Liang
Guy Sinaiko
PhD: 2018-2024
I study the leafhopper genus Neoaliturus Distant in Israel, a genus which contains vectors of several plant diseases. Nine species are known to reside in Israel, three of which are considered species complexes, comprising an unknown number of species. My goal is resolving the taxonomy and phylogeny using an integrative taxonomic approach including behavioral, molecular and morphological analyses.
co-supervisor: Dr. Christopher Dietrich – Illinois Natural History Survey, Prairie Research Institute, University of Illinois, USA
MSc. 2014-2017
Taxonomy and phylogeny of racers (Platyceps "rhodorachis" complex)
(co-supervisor: Roi Dor, Tel-Aviv University)
E-mail: [email protected]
Researchgate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Guy_Sinaiko
Scholar: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=kZrMyZUAAAAJ&hl=en&oi=ao
Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/591411791222810
(Auchenorrhyncha of Israel - photographic observations by the public)
Flickr: https://www.flickr.com/photos/163967734@N07/
(Auchenorrhyncha of Israel - my specimens photos) - ask me for the password!
I study the leafhopper genus Neoaliturus Distant in Israel, a genus which contains vectors of several plant diseases. Nine species are known to reside in Israel, three of which are considered species complexes, comprising an unknown number of species. My goal is resolving the taxonomy and phylogeny using an integrative taxonomic approach including behavioral, molecular and morphological analyses.
co-supervisor: Dr. Christopher Dietrich – Illinois Natural History Survey, Prairie Research Institute, University of Illinois, USA
MSc. 2014-2017
Taxonomy and phylogeny of racers (Platyceps "rhodorachis" complex)
(co-supervisor: Roi Dor, Tel-Aviv University)
E-mail: [email protected]
Researchgate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Guy_Sinaiko
Scholar: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=kZrMyZUAAAAJ&hl=en&oi=ao
Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/591411791222810
(Auchenorrhyncha of Israel - photographic observations by the public)
Flickr: https://www.flickr.com/photos/163967734@N07/
(Auchenorrhyncha of Israel - my specimens photos) - ask me for the password!
Michaela Kolker
in the lab: 2016-2024
Michaela is now a postdoc with Tom shlesinger
Early life history of Fish in the Mediterranean Sea.
(co-supervisor: Roi Holtzman, Tel-Aviv University)
e-mail: [email protected]
Michaela is now a postdoc with Tom shlesinger
Early life history of Fish in the Mediterranean Sea.
(co-supervisor: Roi Holtzman, Tel-Aviv University)
e-mail: [email protected]
Rachel Schwarz
PhD: 2017-2023
Aspects into the relationship between habitats and lizards Eco-physiological, morphological and behavioral traits.
(co -supervisor: David Chapple, Monash University, Australia)
MSc: 2014-2016
During my master, my research focus was on: Island biogeography of reptiles in the Greek islands (co supervisor: Prof. Panayiotis Pafilis)
e-mail: [email protected]
https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Rachel_Schwarz
Aspects into the relationship between habitats and lizards Eco-physiological, morphological and behavioral traits.
(co -supervisor: David Chapple, Monash University, Australia)
MSc: 2014-2016
During my master, my research focus was on: Island biogeography of reptiles in the Greek islands (co supervisor: Prof. Panayiotis Pafilis)
e-mail: [email protected]
https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Rachel_Schwarz
Dr. Enav Vidan
2013-2017
Functional diversity and conservation of reptiles across scales (co supervisor: Yoni Belmaker, Department of Zoology, Tel Aviv University)
Enav is now a postdoc of Uri Roll and Yoram Yom-Tov.
e-mail: [email protected]
Functional diversity and conservation of reptiles across scales (co supervisor: Yoni Belmaker, Department of Zoology, Tel Aviv University)
Enav is now a postdoc of Uri Roll and Yoram Yom-Tov.
e-mail: [email protected]
Dr. Maria Novosolov
Since October 2012-September 2017 (MSc. Since October 2010)
Evolution of life history traits in island endemic lizards and their comparison to the mainland.
e-mail: [email protected]
Maria is now a postdoc at the University of Copenhagen
Dr. Oliver Tallowin
October 2013-October 2017
My interests lie in reptile ecology, biogeography and conservation.
I am particularly interested in the herpetofauna of New Guinea
and conducting computer based modelling to elucidate patterns
in species richness, range size and turnover. I also conduct field
research in Papua New Guinea and intend to assess the effect
of elevational gradients on reptile life history traits.
(co supervisor: Dr. Allen Allison, Bishop Museum, Hawaii)
e-mail: [email protected]
Oliver is now at the UNEP-WCMC in Cambridge, UK
My interests lie in reptile ecology, biogeography and conservation.
I am particularly interested in the herpetofauna of New Guinea
and conducting computer based modelling to elucidate patterns
in species richness, range size and turnover. I also conduct field
research in Papua New Guinea and intend to assess the effect
of elevational gradients on reptile life history traits.
(co supervisor: Dr. Allen Allison, Bishop Museum, Hawaii)
e-mail: [email protected]
Oliver is now at the UNEP-WCMC in Cambridge, UK
Dr. Anat Feldman
October 2010 - August 2016
Snake macroecology
Anat was the first PhD student of the lab and set the standard for everyone else
Anat studied everything snake - and digitized the global distribution of all of them! and did it fantastically well (but won't admit it)
e-mail: [email protected]
Telescopus fallax (until Marco tells us otherwise) - photo by Simon Jamison
Shoham Zoref
M.Sc. since October 2021
Biodiversity in winter pools in different seasons of the year
Co-supervisor: Frida Ben-Ami (Tel-Aviv University)
My main interests are Reptile life, conservation and the impact of human on the ecological systems.
e-mail: [email protected]
Biodiversity in winter pools in different seasons of the year
Co-supervisor: Frida Ben-Ami (Tel-Aviv University)
My main interests are Reptile life, conservation and the impact of human on the ecological systems.
e-mail: [email protected]
Chen Donghe
M.Sc. 2021-2023
Macroecology of snake traits - species distribution models
Co-supervisor: Uri Roll (Ben-Gurion University)
I'm passionate about nature and animals, especially reptiles. I'm also interested in computer and statistics.
Before my M.Sc. in Ecology, I majored in computational biology. Because of my interest in Ecology, I've also taken a lot of courses of Zoology and Ecology, and conducted many Ecology researches including many field works during undergraduate years.
I'm now focusing on macroecology of snake traits - species distribution models, under the supervision of Shai and Dr. Uri Roll (Ben-Gurion University).
e-mail:
[email protected]
[email protected]
Macroecology of snake traits - species distribution models
Co-supervisor: Uri Roll (Ben-Gurion University)
I'm passionate about nature and animals, especially reptiles. I'm also interested in computer and statistics.
Before my M.Sc. in Ecology, I majored in computational biology. Because of my interest in Ecology, I've also taken a lot of courses of Zoology and Ecology, and conducted many Ecology researches including many field works during undergraduate years.
I'm now focusing on macroecology of snake traits - species distribution models, under the supervision of Shai and Dr. Uri Roll (Ben-Gurion University).
e-mail:
[email protected]
[email protected]
Anuj Shinde
M.Sc. 2021-2023
Species co-existence & Niche Differentiation in Sqamate Reptiles
Co-supervisor: Uri Roll (Ben-Gurion University of the Negev)
I am broadly interested in the biogeography of squamate reptiles and frogs. With HerpClub, I try to popularize Indian herpetological science amongst the general public and encourage natural history observations. Being in the table-topped mountains of northern western ghats, I have had the opportunity to explore many rainforest, shrubland, and grassland biomes which has further sparked my interest in understanding species distributions and endemism.
Anuj studied squamate species co-existence & niche differentiation under the spotlight of phylogenies.
I enjoy hiking, running, moongazing, listening to podcasts and soft rock; reading about the history of natural history, sci-fi novels, and travelling in trains.
Anuj is now leading an extremelt cool project surveying the biodiversity of sheildtail snakes (Uropeltidae) in India
e-mail: [email protected]
Species co-existence & Niche Differentiation in Sqamate Reptiles
Co-supervisor: Uri Roll (Ben-Gurion University of the Negev)
I am broadly interested in the biogeography of squamate reptiles and frogs. With HerpClub, I try to popularize Indian herpetological science amongst the general public and encourage natural history observations. Being in the table-topped mountains of northern western ghats, I have had the opportunity to explore many rainforest, shrubland, and grassland biomes which has further sparked my interest in understanding species distributions and endemism.
Anuj studied squamate species co-existence & niche differentiation under the spotlight of phylogenies.
I enjoy hiking, running, moongazing, listening to podcasts and soft rock; reading about the history of natural history, sci-fi novels, and travelling in trains.
Anuj is now leading an extremelt cool project surveying the biodiversity of sheildtail snakes (Uropeltidae) in India
e-mail: [email protected]
Eli Finarov
M.Sc October 2020-October 2022
Management strategies for the Common Myna
Co-supervised by Dr. Uri Roll (Ben Gurion University) and Dr. Assaf Schwartz (Technion).
My main interests are nature conservation, invasive species and ecotourism.
e-mail: [email protected]
Management strategies for the Common Myna
Co-supervised by Dr. Uri Roll (Ben Gurion University) and Dr. Assaf Schwartz (Technion).
My main interests are nature conservation, invasive species and ecotourism.
e-mail: [email protected]
Goni Barki
M.Sc. October 2019 - December 2021
Elucidating drivers of global reptile rarity
Co-supervisor: Uri Roll (Ben-Gurion University)
I have always been fascinated by nature, whether as a city kid binging on National Geographic or as I grew older outdoors, mostly hiking the dessert. At a certain point, I realized that I want my life to revolve around this passion and started a B.Sc. in biology at the Ben Gurion University, during which I was drawn to ecology, especially to the field of spatial ecology. Out of growing care and awareness of the state of the natural world, I decided my next step will be studying and working in the field of conservation biology. I am now starting my M.Sc in the Mitrani Department of Desert Ecology in Sde-Boker, under the supervision of Dr. Uri Roll and Prof. Shai Meiri.
e-mail: [email protected]
Elucidating drivers of global reptile rarity
Co-supervisor: Uri Roll (Ben-Gurion University)
I have always been fascinated by nature, whether as a city kid binging on National Geographic or as I grew older outdoors, mostly hiking the dessert. At a certain point, I realized that I want my life to revolve around this passion and started a B.Sc. in biology at the Ben Gurion University, during which I was drawn to ecology, especially to the field of spatial ecology. Out of growing care and awareness of the state of the natural world, I decided my next step will be studying and working in the field of conservation biology. I am now starting my M.Sc in the Mitrani Department of Desert Ecology in Sde-Boker, under the supervision of Dr. Uri Roll and Prof. Shai Meiri.
e-mail: [email protected]
Gali Ofer
M.Sc. started 2018
GARD 2.0 - Update the Global Assessment of reptile distributions to be wider and reliable, GIS expert
Co-supervisor: Uri Roll (Ben-Gurion University)
During the past decade I gained expertise in GIS and image analysis and conducted several projects in these fields. I had my heart set on conducting a B.Sc. in biology and was certain that I'll be back to work right after that. However, along my studies I discovered the fields of Biogeography and Macroecology which best combined my two passions of biology and spatial analysis. Currently I'm starting my M.Sc. looking at spatial patterns in the global distributions of land vertebrates, and I'm pretty sure I found my calling.
My co supervisor is Dr. Uri Roll and I am based (most of the time) at the School of Zoology, Tel-Aviv University.
e-mail: [email protected]
GARD 2.0 - Update the Global Assessment of reptile distributions to be wider and reliable, GIS expert
Co-supervisor: Uri Roll (Ben-Gurion University)
During the past decade I gained expertise in GIS and image analysis and conducted several projects in these fields. I had my heart set on conducting a B.Sc. in biology and was certain that I'll be back to work right after that. However, along my studies I discovered the fields of Biogeography and Macroecology which best combined my two passions of biology and spatial analysis. Currently I'm starting my M.Sc. looking at spatial patterns in the global distributions of land vertebrates, and I'm pretty sure I found my calling.
My co supervisor is Dr. Uri Roll and I am based (most of the time) at the School of Zoology, Tel-Aviv University.
e-mail: [email protected]
Adva (Olga) Peretz
M.Sc. since October 2017, now at Israel Nature and Park Authority
Archaeozoology and ecology of the water vole (Arvicola amphibious)
Co-supervisor: Nimrod Marom (Haifa University)
e-mail: [email protected]
Archaeozoology and ecology of the water vole (Arvicola amphibious)
Co-supervisor: Nimrod Marom (Haifa University)
e-mail: [email protected]
Liat Dror
M.Sc. October 2018-January 2021
Activity rhythms of reptiles (specifically species from the Genus Ptyodactylus and Chalcides)
Co-supervisor: Noga Kronfeld-schor (Tel-Aviv University)
e-mail: [email protected]
Activity rhythms of reptiles (specifically species from the Genus Ptyodactylus and Chalcides)
Co-supervisor: Noga Kronfeld-schor (Tel-Aviv University)
e-mail: [email protected]
David David
M.Sc. October 2016-2020
Captive breeding and conservation, as well as digit asymmetry and laterality in the Eastern Spade foot toad - Pelobates syriacus.
Co-supervisor: Sarig Gafny (Rupin)
e-mail: [email protected]
Captive breeding and conservation, as well as digit asymmetry and laterality in the Eastern Spade foot toad - Pelobates syriacus.
Co-supervisor: Sarig Gafny (Rupin)
e-mail: [email protected]
Simon Jamison
M.Sc. October 2015-2018
Simon is currently working as a lab manager at Ofir levy's lab.
Simon studied the Natural history of little Israeli reptiles: Ophiomorus latastii, Eirenis decemlineatus, & Micrelaps muelleri.
Simon is the greatest threat to rare reptiles in Israel, as he inevitably finds that reptiles that other people could not locate for years are actually extremely common. We are considering patenting him as a reptile-locating and capturing device
e-mail: [email protected]
Simon is currently working as a lab manager at Ofir levy's lab.
Simon studied the Natural history of little Israeli reptiles: Ophiomorus latastii, Eirenis decemlineatus, & Micrelaps muelleri.
Simon is the greatest threat to rare reptiles in Israel, as he inevitably finds that reptiles that other people could not locate for years are actually extremely common. We are considering patenting him as a reptile-locating and capturing device
e-mail: [email protected]
Gavin Stark
M.Sc. October 2016-2018
Aspects of Vertebrate's Longevity
Doing his PhD (since November 2018) in Ofir levy's Lab, on the effects of global warming on the ecological interactions of species living in extreme environments, such as deserts.
Come and Visit me in the Judean Desert in the Dead Sea Region in eastern Israel and I will show you some amazing desert animals!
e-mail: [email protected]
Website - Wixs
Website - Weebly
Google Scholar
ResearchGate
BloGARD
Aspects of Vertebrate's Longevity
Doing his PhD (since November 2018) in Ofir levy's Lab, on the effects of global warming on the ecological interactions of species living in extreme environments, such as deserts.
Come and Visit me in the Judean Desert in the Dead Sea Region in eastern Israel and I will show you some amazing desert animals!
e-mail: [email protected]
Website - Wixs
Website - Weebly
Google Scholar
ResearchGate
BloGARD
Lior Davis (M.Sc.)
October 2013 - February 2016
Character displacement in shorebirds and raptors
(co-supervisor: Tamar Dayan)
e-mail: [email protected]
Character displacement in shorebirds and raptors
(co-supervisor: Tamar Dayan)
e-mail: [email protected]
Yuval Baar (M.Sc.)
October 2013 - February 2016
size changes with time and temperature and global warming in insects (co supervisor: Inon Sharf, Department of Zoology, Tel Aviv University)
e-mail: [email protected]
size changes with time and temperature and global warming in insects (co supervisor: Inon Sharf, Department of Zoology, Tel Aviv University)
e-mail: [email protected]
Dr. Amir Lewin
MSC. October 2013 - October 2015
Macroecology of distribution patterns in African lizards
e-mail: [email protected]
Amir did his PhD inTakuya Iwaura lab, and is now a postdoc of Uri Roll
Macroecology of distribution patterns in African lizards
e-mail: [email protected]
Amir did his PhD inTakuya Iwaura lab, and is now a postdoc of Uri Roll
Dr. Alison Gainsbury (Postdoc)
August 2014 - August 2015
Global associations between climate, net primary productivity and lizard diet.
e-mail: [email protected]
nowadays: Visiting Assistant Professor, University of Southern Florida
Global associations between climate, net primary productivity and lizard diet.
e-mail: [email protected]
nowadays: Visiting Assistant Professor, University of Southern Florida
Daniel Berkowic (M.Sc.)
October 2009 - February 2011
Co-evolution of size and egg size in cuckoos and their hosts (co-advisor: Shai Markman, University of Haifa at Oranim)
e-mail: [email protected]
Daniel is doing a PhD with Roi Dor, Nir Sapir and Yossi Leshem. Something to do with black kites, and garbage, we think.
Co-evolution of size and egg size in cuckoos and their hosts (co-advisor: Shai Markman, University of Haifa at Oranim)
e-mail: [email protected]
Daniel is doing a PhD with Roi Dor, Nir Sapir and Yossi Leshem. Something to do with black kites, and garbage, we think.
Lital Dabool (M.Sc.)
October 2010 - March 2013
The “Island Syndrome” and reproductive strategies of squamates: a study of two biomes.
e-mail: [email protected]
Currently a Ph.D. student at the Technion Israel Institute of Technology
The “Island Syndrome” and reproductive strategies of squamates: a study of two biomes.
e-mail: [email protected]
Currently a Ph.D. student at the Technion Israel Institute of Technology
Amy Kadison (M.Sc.)
October 2011 - April 2014
Community assembly, resources and size extremes of island vertebrates. (co supervisor: Pasquale Raia, Università Federico II, Napoli, Italy).
e-mail: [email protected]
Currently an M.Sc. student of Viticulture and Oenology in Europe.
Community assembly, resources and size extremes of island vertebrates. (co supervisor: Pasquale Raia, Università Federico II, Napoli, Italy).
e-mail: [email protected]
Currently an M.Sc. student of Viticulture and Oenology in Europe.
Maya Spivak (M.Sc.)
October 2009 - December 2014
Taxonomy and phylogeny of Israeli shrews (co supervisor: Dorothee Huchon, Department of Zoology, Tel Aviv University)
e-mail: [email protected]
Taxonomy and phylogeny of Israeli shrews (co supervisor: Dorothee Huchon, Department of Zoology, Tel Aviv University)
e-mail: [email protected]
