After a fascinating time as a postdoctoral fellow at the Australian National University in Canberra, I came back to the Lund Vision Group in spring 2007, where I am now a professor. Throughout my career I have been developing behavioural methods for measuring the visual performance of organisms as diverse as insects, fish, spiders and humans. These methods make it possible to quantitatively measure the behavioural responses to visual stimuli, and then infer the underlying neural mechanisms that are responsible. The aim of many of my research projects is to explore the visual design and the neuronal basis behind safe navigation systems active on land, in air and in water. A true understanding of these systems requires a comparative approach based on different animals with different ecological and evolutionary histories.

One of my current research projects focuses on nocturnal and diurnal compass systems. I study these primarily in the hardworking dung beetles, with great admiration for the navigational capabilities of these model animals - with a brain volume smaller than the size of a rice grain - as I myself totally lack any sense of direction. Neither can I see the polarized light that guides these animals on their journeys.

I have a keen interest for the education of the general public and among other things act as a panel member of the nature show “Studio Natur” (please see link) and direct and perform in the Lund University Biology Show (please see link). I also enjoy putting together short presentations in the form of 3 – 8 minute long Sience slams.