Tim L. Heller
Academic background
M.Sc. in Evolution, 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, phylogenetic and population genomic tools, graphic software (Photoshop, Lightroom, Inkscape, ImageJ, Zerene), and High-Performance Clusters. Research experience in relevant genomic protocols and bioinformatic processing. Foundational knowledge in Python, Machine Learning Models & Neural Networks, LaTeX, Demographic & Ecological Niche Modelling, Metabarcoding, Data Management, and Organismic Networks.
Laboratory
Experience in all necessary steps for DNA sequencing, such as DNA extraction, PCR, DNA purification, PAGE, library preparation, metabarcoding protocols. Knowledge on proteine purification and extraction knowledge. Additional skills in in-vitro micropropagation of plants, sterile work, and microbiological work.
Field Studies
Over a decade experience in photography (macro & wildlife), participated in and guided many arachnological and herpetological excursions (applying various detection, capturing, and documentation techniques). Professional knowledge in field surveys, habitat assessments, and GIS. Practiced in advanced medical first response (8 years as paramedic in military), aerial drone mapping, advanced diving, and bioacoustic monitoring.
Research
Experience in herpetological and arachnological integrative taxonomy (molecular, ecological & morphological), digital scientific sketching, behavioral studies, microscopy techniques, preparation & preservation of vertebrates and invertebrates.
Positions
Strategic Advisor for Recruitment
Societas Europaea Herpetologica
2025 — Present
Outreach and science communication.
Onube GmbH
2025 — Present
Species monitoring and herpetology survey coordinator.
Species Conservation Specialist
Conference Talks
SEH Herpetology Conference
Bonn
Oct 2025
Genomes on a Ferry: Human-mediated Dispersal and Hybridization in Cryptoblepharus skinks
DGHT Herpetology Conference
Bonn
Oct 2025
Vom Terrarium ins Ökosystem: Agama picticauda als Modell für trophische Flexibilität invasiver Reptilien in Städten
EES Conference
Munich
February 2023
Molecular evidence for hidden diversity in the Ethiopian herpetofauna