Alina Koeters, BSc

Room 517
alina.koeters@student.uibk.ac.at

I developed a strong interest in nature early on, which deepened further during my biology studies. Since then, I have been particularly fascinated by insects. Their incredible diversity and complex ways of life continue to spark my curiosity. Since moving to Innsbruck, I have also developed a strong interest in alpine ecosystems.

During my Bachelor’s studies at the University of Würzburg, I focused intensively on ants. In my Bachelor’s thesis, I investigated the injury rate within ant colonies, which provided me with exciting insights into the social behaviour of these animals.

I am currently doing my Master’s thesis project, in which I continue to deepen my passion for ant research. Together with PhD student Salvatore Brunetti, I am studying the pathogenetic reproduction of ants. For this project, I am working with the species Lasius fuliginosus, which is known for its distinctive lemon-like smell. In this work, I analyse the ovaries to gain new insights into their reproductive strategies.

Research topics
Behavioural ecology
Myrmecology
Parthenogenesis