My main research interest concerns the evolution of complex and integrated musculo-skeletal systems. By combining a variety of experimental approaches and techniques (e.g. electromyography, high-speed video and cineradiographic recordings, nerve transection experiments, muscle physiology, biomechanical modelling, ...) in an explicit comparative framework, I try to gain insights into the evolution of such systems. As model systems, I have chosen the feeding and locomotor system in vertebrates. I'm especially interested in the role that constraints and trade offs may play in shaping the evolution of these systems.

In addition to experimental lab-based approaches, I investigate performance traits associated with the feeding and locomotor systems (e.g. bite force, sprint speed, endurance capacity, etc...) in an ecological and evolutionary context. In collaboration with colleagues in France and abroad I also include developmental and genomic approaches to study the mechanisms allowing rapid phenotypic diversification in natural populations.

I have been fortunate enough to be able to do field work in many places around the world allowing me to better understand animals in their natural environment. Illustrated is my collaboration network map (made with VOSviewer).