Anne Sverdrup-Thygeson

Insect Evangelist

Anne Sverdrup-Thygeson is a Professor of Conservation Biology at the Norwegian University of Life Sciences and a scientific advisor for The Norwegian Institute for Nature Research. Anne’s research focuses on insect ecology and the relationship between biodiversity and ecosystem services, especially in the forest.

In addition to her scientific research, Anne invests much of her time in communicating her work to wider audiences. She has won multiple awards for her teaching, presenting and writing about biology. Her first book Insektenes Planet / Extraordinary Insects was published in Norway in 2018 and became an international bestseller with translations into more than 20 languages. She also runs a science blog and is a regular guest on radio and TV.

 

Anne’s TEDxTalk

Not Only Are Insects Extraordinary; They May Save Your Life

Insects are fascinating creatures that live weird and truly astonishing lives right under our noses. Often ignored or even detested, the world’s trillions of insects still work tirelessly to uphold our ecosystems and help humans survive.

We need them for pollination, for decomposition and soil formation; to serve as food for other animals, keep harmful organisms in check, disperse seeds, help us in our research and inspire us with their smart solutions.

Insects are nature’s little cogs that make the world go ‘round. Trouble is, it seems like many of these cogs are about to come loose.