Dr. Jim Labisko is a Lecturer in Biodiversity at the Centre for Biodiversity and Environment Research, University College London. He was awarded his PhD from the University of Kent in 2016, where his research focused on the evolutionary relationships of Seychelles’ sooglossid frogs — a globally significant group that continues to be a primary focus of his research today.

With more than a decade of experience in surveying, monitoring, and researching herpetofauna (amphibians and reptiles), Jim’s main interests lie at the intersection of behaviour, ecology, biogeography, and evolution. His work uses these disciplines to explore the drivers of evolutionary change and adaptation and to inform effective conservation measures.

This integrative approach led to the first bioacoustic monitoring programme for amphibians in Seychelles, developed in collaboration with a range of local partners including the Seychelles Islands Foundation, the Island Conservation Society, the Island Biodiversity and Conservation (IBC) Centre at UniSey, and the Seychelles Department of Environment. He has also provided consultancy and expert advice on the biodiversity impacts of infrastructure development and environmental policy in Seychelles.

Jim has established numerous international partnerships and collaborations. In addition to his research on herpetofauna, he acts as an ecological consultant on infrastructure projects, focusing on monitoring and mitigating impacts on bat populations.

He has contributed to more than 15 peer-reviewed papers, book chapters, and technical reports, including six as first author.