Plant systematist, working with the sunflower family (Compositae). Currently Research Leader in the Africa Team at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew and associated to the Plant Biology graduate program of Universidade Federal de Pernambuco (Recife, Brazil). Wide experience in taxonomy (including nomenclature, botanical Latin), field work (Brazil, Chile, Zambia), as well as phylogenetic systematics. Main line of research: evolution and systematics of the tribe Vernonieae, investigated through a framework of integrative data (morphological, anatomical, palynological, phytochemical and molecular characters) and methods (from species description to phylogenetic analysis). Publications include mostly descriptions of new species, floristic treatments, taxonomic revisions and phylogenetic studies. Highly collaborative, having developed a cooperative network with colleagues from South America, Europe and United States. Enthusiast of botanical history, philosophy of systematics and ancient Greek culture. Proficient in English, Portuguese and French (native speaker).