Next-Gen Science at the Crux of Biodiversity: Drone, Genomic, and Network Approaches to Endemic Cliff Ecosystems in a Macaronesian Hotspot

Objective

Cliff ecosystems are ecological frontiers where extreme vertical habitats harbor exceptionally high levels of plant endemism and unique pollinator communities. In Europe, more than 2,000 plant taxa are restricted to cliffs, yet these ecosystems remain poorly studied due to their inaccessibility and fieldwork risks. At the same time, cliff species face intensifying threats from climate change, habitat degradation, and recreational pressures, with extinction rates on islands already exceeding global averages. Understanding and safeguarding these fragile systems requires disruptive approaches that go beyond the limits of conventional field research. The CRUX project pioneers an integrated UAV–AI–genomic framework to unlock the ecological and evolutionary dynamics of cliff ecosystems. Focusing on Macaronesia, and especially the Canary Islands - one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots -CRUX will: (1) map cliff habitats and endemic species using drone-based imaging, (2) develop AI pipelines to automate species recognition and monitor pollinator activity, (3) validate UAV-based sampling protocols, (4) apply genomics and metabarcoding to assess genetic connectivity and pollination networks, and (5) synthesize outputs into transferable conservation guidelines, FAIR datasets, and open-access publications. Beyond advancing biodiversity science, CRUX delivers high-impact, transferable tools for conservation and EU policy. The fellow will gain cutting-edge expertise at the intersection of ecology, engineering, and genomics, emerging as a leader in technology-enabled conservation. In doing so, CRUX directly contributes to the EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030, UN Sustainable Development Goals, and MSCA Green Charter, reinforcing European leadership in ecological innovation.