Roma Tre University · Department of Science
From field research to conservation action
The LEC - Lab for Ecology & Conservation studies the ecological processes shaping the distribution, abundance and functioning of animal communities, with a special focus on amphibians and reptiles, threatened species and invasive species.
We combine basic and applied research to turn field data, laboratory work and innovative monitoring technologies into evidence-based tools for biodiversity conservation.
What We Do
Ecology and conservation
We study animal populations and communities to understand how they respond to environmental change, habitat fragmentation, invasive species and human-driven pressures.
Monitoring and biologging
We use VHF telemetry, GPS, accelerometers, magnetometers and molecular tools such as eDNA to collect high-resolution data on movements, activity and space use.
Threatened species
We work on amphibians and reptiles of conservation concern, contributing to monitoring protocols, active management and the assessment of conservation actions.
Collaborations
We collaborate with universities, research institutes, protected areas, local authorities and national and international partners in research and conservation projects.
Research Topics
Methods And Approaches
From field to lab
- Long-term field monitoring
- Laboratory and field experiments
- Ecological data collection and analysis
- Experimental work on target species and populations
Technologies and analysis
- Tracking and biologging technologies
- Population genetic analyses
- Molecular methods for biodiversity monitoring
- Statistical and spatial models for conservation
Research, Conservation, Training
Lab activities include field research, long-term monitoring, laboratory experiments and conservation projects developed with management bodies, protected areas and national and international institutions.
The lab welcomes students and early-career researchers interested in theses, internships and collaborations on animal ecology, conservation, biologging, invasive species, eDNA and biodiversity management.