Plant Ecology Research Laboratory

The Laboratoire d'ecologie vegetale at EPFL focuses on understanding the physiological and ecological responses of terrestrial ecosystems to global change. Research themes include the impact of biodiversity loss on ecosystem functions, plant responses to climatic stress, and the physiological advantage of invasive exotic species over native vegetation. The team uses innovative techniques to study ecosystems at various scales, from cells to whole ecosystems, in different environmental conditions. They conduct research in controlled conditions, manipulative field experiments, and long-term inventory platforms, aiming to parameterize climate-vegetation models and develop climate-smart management practices.