National Projects

Phenotypic sex differences present a fascinating evolutionary puzzle — ‘one genome, two sexes’. This project investigates the mechanisms underlying extreme sexual size dimorphism in the African hermit spider Nephilingis cruentata, where females are on average 75 times larger than males. Using quantitative genetics, genomics, biochemistry and developmental biology, MATES aims to identify the genes, maternal traits, and genetic variants that explain how evolution can proceed towards sex-specific optima of the same trait without sexual conflict.

Investigates a mixed sheep/goat herd of autochthonous Slovenian breeds (Belokrajnska pramenka sheep and Drežniška koza goats) as a multi-species farming system. The project combines ethology, whole genome sequencing, grassland biodiversity assessment, soil science, and GIS analysis to understand the dynamics of sympatric domestic animal communities and their impact on landscape rehabilitation.

A tri-national study combining behavioural, molecular and physiological data to understand the ecology and stress responses of wild boar exposed to different hunting practices. The project deploys GPS-GSM telemetry on at least 35 individuals, analyses stomach contents, cortisol levels, and meat quality across three countries — delivering evidence-based guidance for wildlife managers, hunters and the meat industry.

Uses European roe deer as a model species to study the long-term effects of environmental factors on biological processes and genetic background. The project compares two ecotypes — field roe deer from open agricultural landscapes and forest roe deer — across Slovenia and Poland, investigating differences in body size, fitness traits, immune status, microbiome and embryonic diapause in relation to landscape and climate conditions.