Laure Cauchard, Ph.D

I am a Cognitive Ecologist interested in the origins and evolutionary consequences of individual variation in cognition in wild animals (but not only!). I like to use a diversity of fields and approaches (thanks to a wonderful team of collaborators!) to reach deeper understanding of the evolutionary processes involved. Environmental changes due to anthropogenic activities are rapidly altering wild species habitats, and determining which traits increase survival/reproduction, and how they do so, is critical to better understand the evolution of cognition.

My path took me to birds, their incredible diversity as well as their amazing strategies to adjust to their environment, make them a perfect study model. As much as I love birds, I am excited to investigate these questions in other animals as well!

I believe that diversity, inclusivity & equity are important for good Science, as much as open-mindedness, honesty and kindness. If you share these values too, feel free to contact me for any question/request. I would be delighted to meet you.

Current position: Postdoctoral Researcher at the CNRS UMR5558 Laboratory of Biometry and Evolutionary Biology, Villeurbanne, France / Swiss Ornithological Institute, Sempach, Switzerland