Stefaniya Kamenova Kamenova

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Academic interests

 

As a molecular ecologist, I specialise in developing DNA-based methods to investigate trophic interactions. During my PhD at the Centre d’Études Biologiques de Chizé in France, I pioneered innovative stable isotopes and DNA metabarcoding techniques to characterise the diet and gut microbiomes of carabid beetles. Subsequently, during my first postdoc at the University of Guelph in Canada, I focused on creating DNA diagnostic tools to quantify host-parasitoid interactions in Canadian boreal forests.

Since joining CEES in 2017, my research has focused on investigating the impact of climate change on Arctic herbivores. Specifically, by studying the diet-gut microbiome nexus, I am interested in the mechanisms underlying Svalbard reindeer's ability to cope with the effects of climate change.

My research also focuses on developing and refining methodologies for analysing complex herbivore diets. This involves animal feeding trials and comparing multiple methods to overcome the associated challenges. I am currently coordinating the PIECEMEAL network, which brings together researchers from Norway, Spain, France, USA, and Finland. Our aim is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the advantages and limitations of different methods used to assess animal diets, including DNA metabarcoding, micro-histology, and stable isotope ratios.

Tags: DNA metabarcoding, Diet analysis, Food webs, Ecosystem services, France, Canada
Published Mar. 13, 2017 1:10 PM - Last modified Mar. 13, 2023 10:11 PM

Projects

No ongoing projects