Institute of Evolutionary Science of Montpellier

The Institute of Evolutionary Science of Montpellier (ISEM) is a research institution focusing on biodiversity origins, dynamics and the associated evolutionary mechanisms and processes.
members
+ 0
articles published yearly
+ 0
PhD thesis defences / 5 years
+ 0
partner countries
+ 0

Research at ISEM

Field, experimental and theoretical research on fundamental evolutionary biology issues concerns both current and past biodiversity, while encompassing a broad range of organisms and environments. This fundamental research dovetails with applied and predictive research on a major 21st century scientific and social issue in interaction with the humanities, medicine and society – to what extent is biodiversity able to cope with global change?

Science for all

Are you interested in biological evolution and ecology but not a specialist? Here you will find podcasts, films, videos, books and events that discuss our research and how it relates to current scientific and social issues such as the biodiversity crisis, human medicine, animal health and climate change.
#evolution

Latest news

… oneline

Laurence Meslin
Mussel cancer
Collection ESPECE DE – Open Science

… by press release

Mathieu Pélissié 
Detecting declines in fish stocks would help prevent the collapse of fisheries
Univ. Montp. Sept. 2026

… oneline

Eve Davidian
When mothers make the winners: How alpha female lineages dominate hyena clans
Phys.org, July 2026

CNRS Crystal Medal 2026

Sébastien Gibert, ISEM Administrator
Structuring and strengthening research support.
CNRS, June 2026

CNRS Bronze Medal 2026

Christelle Fraisse, a researcher in the Sexe & Spéciation team, explores the mechanisms underlying the evolution and diversification of species.
CNRS, June 2026

… oneline

Eve Davidian
One rank to rule them all? No, rank metrics need to be trait-specific to fully explain hierarchies in hyena clans
Leibniz-IZW, Mai 2026

Next events

28/09/2026 at 2 p.m.

PhD thesis defence

Théo Deremarque
Development of detection tools and study of the genomic diversity of a highly invasive host-parasite complex, Pseudorasbora parva-Sphaerothecum destruens

11/09/2026 at 2 p.m.

PhD thesis defence

Lucas Buffan
Macro-eco-evolutionary perspectives on the Cenozoic history of South American mammals

One of ISEM's primary missions is to train future generations of researchers, teachers and experts in evolutionary biology, ecology and biodiversity sciences.

Education & training

ISEM offers research internships and PhD theses throughout the year