Ernesto Villacís Pérez, Chair

About my research

I study the antagonistic interactions between plants and the arthropods that exploit them at different levels of biological organization, from molecules to ecology. The main aim of my research is to understand the causes and consequences of the evolution of adaptative mechanisms in herbivores. By focusing on pest arthropods, my research lies at the intersection between fundamental and applied research, and thus I hope to use my background in evolutionary biology to help fulfil the immense task of creating sustainable, integrative pest management practices that can prevent, and even anticipate, pest formation.

In June 2024, I joined the EPS postdoc council with the aim of helping achieve a just working environment for my peers, and to ameliorate the perils associated with a life in academia, in particular among postdocs. I enjoy creating spaces to openly discuss issues and to find possible solutions as a community. I hope to be able to become a voice for our community inside and outside of academia, in particular for underrepresented groups and minorities.