Tim L. Heller




Academic background
M.Sc. in Evolutionary, Ecology and Systematics at Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität.
Thesis: Tracing Evolutionary Pathways in Cryptoblepharus Skinks: Genomic Reconstruction of Human-Mediated Hybridization in an Island Radiation
B.Sc. in Biology at Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität with focus on Evolutionary Biology.
Thesis: A morphological analysis of the cryptic Madatyphlops arenarius (Serpentes: Scolecophidia s.s.: Typhlopidae) complex
2022-2025
2018-2022
Evolutionary Biologist &
Wildlife Photographer
Bioinformatics


Key competences
Advanced knowledege in Linux bash, R (incl. multiple models and statistical approaches), phylogenetic softwares (with Bayesian and Maximum Likelihood algorithms), population genetics (STRUCTURE, ADMIXTURE, statistics), graphic software (Photoshop, Lightroom, ImageJ, Fiji).
Foundational knowledge in Python, Machine Learning & Neural Networks, LaTeX, Clusters, Ecological Niche Modelling, organismic networks.


Laboratory
All necessary steps for DNA sequencing, such as DNA extraction, PCR, DNA purification, PAGE, library preparation, metabarcoding protocols. Experience in vitro micropropagation of plants, sterile work, microbiological work, husbandry of various invertebrates.


Field Studies
Over a decade experience in photography (macro & wildlife), participated in and guided many arachnological and herpetological excursions (incl. capturing and detection techniques), aerial drone mapping, advanced medical first response, and excursion planning.


Research
Experience in herpetological and arachnological integrative taxonomy (ecological, morphological & molecular), digital scientific sketching, behavioral studies, microscopy techniques, preservation & preparation of vertebrates and invertebrates.