At Faunomics, our collective identity is defined by a unique blend of expertise, innovation, and a shared vision to “See the Unseen”—to unravel the complexities of Earth’s ecosystems and biodiversity through precise and data-driven methodologies. Our team’s unity is underpinned by a common purpose: to advance our understanding of the natural world and to provide actionable insights for diverse stakeholders including industries, NGOs, governments, and communities.
Michael
After studying biology with a focus on classical botany and zoology, Michael Riffel obtained his PhD with a population genetic topic on freshwater fish at Heidelberg University. In 2000, he became self-employed, founding RIFCON GmbH, which now employs around 200 scientists in the fields of environmental planning and chemical approval, and last year founded Faunomics GmbH , which offers services in the field of eDNA. Since 2014, Michael has also been running an ecotourism company in African Zambia. Nature and species conservation are close to his heart, supported financially by the establishment of the Caring for Conservation Fund gGmbH.
Sabina
Sabina graduated with a Doctorate in Natural Sciences from the University of Kaiserslautern, Germany, she holds a Bachelor’s degree in Biology with a focus on Molecular Biology. Sabina was granted the Emerging Leaders in the Americas Program scholarship, which took her to Montreal for further studies in biology. After completing her scholarship, Sabina returned to Colombia to work in molecular ecology research. She then moved to Germany to pursue a doctorate degree with BASF SE, where she specialized in the implementation of omics technologies in toxicology. She is currently a Lab Leader at Faunomics, where she applies her expertise in molecular biology and omics technologies to drive innovative research and development.
Daniel
Daniel obtained his Bachelors degree in Biology with a focus on field ecology and conservation in Guatemala, which is part of the Mesoamerican Biodiversity Hotspot. Daniel later obtained a Master degree in Ecology and Evolution with a focus on genomics from the University of Munich. He is currently a PhD student at Faunomics GmbH where in close collaboration with Lara Urbans laboratory at the Helmholtz Pioneer Campus, Munich he is working to develop molecular and bioinformatic approaches for monitoring biodiversity using different environmental DNA sources and portable next generation sequencing technologies. Daniel also obtained a Bachelors degree in Business Administration from the Technical University of Applied Sciences in Wildau, Germany.
Christina
Christina has been a newly appointed professor of Toxicology and Pharmacology at Mannheim University of Applied Sciences since 2023. Previously, she carried out her PhD project in the Department of Experimental Toxicology and Ecology at BASF SE and graduated from Wageningen University and Research. After a stay abroad, Christina worked as a regulatory toxicologist for Rifcon GmbH and has since been involved in the scientific orientation and establishment of Faunomics, now also with joint projects.
Nadja
Nadja has been employed in the research and innovationsector at Faunomics since 2023. Previously, she worked for many years in the field department of Rifcon GmbH, thus bringing valuable practical experience in traditional field methods. With her existing knowledge and simultaneous curiosity for novel approaches and solutions, she serves as a valuable link between conventional assessment and evaluation methods and the development and establishment of new methodologies. This makes her a valuable asset to Faunomics.
Eric
After studying biology with a focus on biochemistry, molecular and cell biology, Eric gained his doctoral degree in the field of molecular plant biology at the University of Heidelberg. During his doctorate and subsequently as a postdoc, Eric investigated the influence of protein modifications on the abiotic stress response in plants. After successful years in basic university research, Eric moved to industry to work in quality assurance at Rifcon GmbH. After a short break from research, Eric returned to the laboratory at Faunomics, where he can utilize his broad expertise in molecular biology.
Tom
Tom Riffel is an enthusiastic ecologist and conservationist with a strong focus on conservation work in Zambia. He completed his studies in Ecology & Conservation Science at the University of Suffolk in the UK. Currently, he co-manages a conservation NGO in eastern Zambia alongside his father. Tom’s passion for conservation and expertise in ecology make him a valuable asset to Faunomics. He brings a wealth of field-based experience, including camera trapping, bioacoustics, various survey methods, and remote sensing.
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Commitment
The cornerstone of our team dynamic is a deep-seated commitment to both our environmental mission and to each other. This commitment is reflected in our collaborative approach to problem-solving, where challenges are met with collective resourcefulness and resilience. It is this shared dedication that ensures our work not only meets but exceeds the expectations of those we serve, driving positive and measurable environmental outcomes.
Empathy
Empathy is central to our ethos, informing our internal collaborations and our engagements with the broader community. It is through empathy that we can truly appreciate the complexity of ecological systems and the varied needs of the communities we work with. This understanding is crucial in devising solutions that are not only scientifically sound, but are also equitable and sensitive to the socio-ecological contexts in which we operate.
Relationships
The essence of Faunomics is found in the strength of our relationships—be it within our team or with our partners and clients. These relationships are the foundation for a collaborative and inclusive work environment where innovative solutions are born from the synergy of diverse expertise and perspectives. We are committed to fostering strong, constructive partnerships that are conducive to shared learning and collective action.
Our team comprises a dynamic array of professionals including scientists, analysts, and communicators, each contributing their specialized knowledge towards our common goals. More than their individual skill sets, they are the bearers of our core values, driving our efforts to illuminate the unseen aspects of the natural world and contribute to its preservation.
Faunomics is not just a collective of individuals, but a community united by a dedication to environmental stewardship. Through our shared commitment, empathy, and the nurturing of meaningful relationships, we endeavour to uncover new insights about our planet, ensuring its wonders and resources are preserved for future generations.
