Staff profile

My PhD project focusses on the evolution and phylogenetics of the diverse seabird order Procellariiformes. This order contains a large proportion of threatened and poorly known species, with particular questions remaining over their evolutionary history. At present, even relationships at the most broad taxonomic scale, between the families of the order, remain unresolved. 

To remedy this, samples for all taxa of the order will be collected and next-generation sequencing used to generate extensive genetic datasets. This will allow investigation into the evolution and systematics of the order. It is hoped that further understanding of these lacking areas should enable better management and conservation of seabird populations in future.

• Evolution
• Phylogenetics
• Population genetics
• Systematics

Journal Article

• Lesage, C., Cherel, Y., Delord, K., d’Orchymont, Q., Fretin, M., Levy, M., Welch, A., & Barbraud, C. (2024). Pre-eradication updated seabird survey including new records on Amsterdam Island, southern Indian Ocean. Polar Biology, 47, 1093–1105. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00300-024-03282-5