[Portrait] Olivier Blight, teacher-researcher in population biology and ecology at the IMBE

What is your research about?

My research focuses on the effects of environmental changes on arthropod populations and communities and their restoration. I am particularly interested in (1) the role of arthropods as ecosystem engineers and their use in restoration ecology, (2) the restoration of specific and functional diversity of arthropods in agro-ecosystems, (3) and the dynamics of invasive species and their effects on biodiversity and ecosystem functioning.

(Re)listen to Olivier Blight on France Inter :

"One of the worst ants in the world is in France 8/11/2022

What are your current scientific activities?

I am currently coordinating the scientific component ofan action plan to combat an invasive ant, the electric ant (Wasmannia auropunctata), which was detected for the first time in France last August. Following a risk assessment I carried out in 2020 for the European Union, this species was added to the list of species of concern for the Union. In addition to restrictions on its marketing, possession and transport, Member States are obliged to put in place an eradication plan within months of its detection.

Why did you choose to work in academic research?

As for a great majority of professional or amateur entomologists, this interest for insects goes back to my childhood. As far back as I can remember, I have always been interested in insects, especially ants. However, this interest has always been guided by a strong curiosity, a desire to understand how these social insects are organised, more than by a naturalistic approach. I have always been fascinated by the interactions between ants but also of ants with their environment. It is thanks to the realization of several scientific internships from the L3 that I discovered this world of academic research, which allowed me and still allows me to fill this thirst of curiosity.

What advice would you give to students who want to do research?

The road to a scientific career is long and often complicated professionally and personally. In addition to the precariousness of fixed-term contracts, sacrifices often have to be made when one has to go abroad. Motivation and self-sacrifice are therefore key to achieving this goal. It is also very important to talk to the researchers you work with in your teaching about their work and their research.

What object or image from your business best illustrates you?

I spend the vast majority of my time in the field on all fours, with an insect hoover in my mouth looking for animals a few millimetres in size. This is currently the case with the 1.5mm electric ant.