“It is not the strongest of the species that survive, nor the most intelligent, but the one most responsive to change.” (Charles Darwin)
My passion for nature and deep concern over global warming and environmental degradation have always driven my academic pursuits. This commitment led me to focus my doctoral thesis on the flora of Iran and the Mediterranean region, areas critical for understanding plant evolution, adaptation, and conservation. My research is not just an academic endeavor; it is an urgent response to the pressing need to preserve our ecosystem and combat climate change. Through studying these biodiversity hotspots, I aim to contribute to safeguarding our planet’s biological heritage for future generations.
Drawing from the focal themes of my doctoral thesis, my research centers on biogeography, plant systematics, evolutionary history, and ecology within the richly diverse flora of Iran and the Mediterranean region. These regions serve as ideal study areas due to their status as biodiversity hotspots and their unique ecological dynamics, which present intriguing research questions regarding plant evolution and adaptation.
Through biosystematic and phylogenetic studies, I utilize advanced molecular techniques to explore the intricate relationships and evolutionary patterns of plant species in these diverse ecosystems. By elucidating the genetic makeup and evolutionary history of taxa such as Verbascum, I aim to deepen our understanding of angiosperm evolution and its implications for biodiversity conservation.
My interest extends to exploring the multifaceted interactions between plants and their environments, encompassing relationships with other plants, insects, pollinators, as well as the influences of soil and climate conditions. Recognizing the complexity of these interactions is essential for understanding ecosystem resilience and biodiversity. Investigating these dynamic relationships not only reveals the mechanisms underlying plant diversity but also aids in devising strategies for conserving biodiversity and mitigating the impacts of environmental changes on ecosystems.
Verbascum serves as a focal point in my research, offering valuable insights into evolutionary trajectories and ecological adaptations within this specific plant group. By analyzing historical biogeographic processes, I aim to shed light on the spatial distribution of Verbascum species and emphasize the importance of conserving biodiversity hotspots for long-term.
My research endeavors are driven by a commitment to advancing botanical knowledge through interdisciplinary collaboration and mentorship. I am eager to collaborate with researchers on projects related to plant systematics and/or biodiversity conservation and the role of plants in addressing environmental challenges.
Curriculum vitae | Projects | Teaching | Floristic Trips | Herbaria and Botanical Gardens