In January 2015, I started my PhD at the University of Innsbruck, at the Department of Ecology. I was investigating the social structure and (aggressive) behaviour of a high-elevation ant Tetramorium alpestre, which is mainly found between 1600 and 2300 metres above sea level. My supervisors were Florian M. Steiner and Birgit Schlick-Steiner, both from the University of Innsbruck.
I was able to acquire funding for a 3-year period (Doctoral scholarship) granted from the association for the support of South-Tyrolean students at the University of Innsbruck.