Our group's research activity is focused on the study of Animal Phylogeny and Evolution. We have been involved in various lines of research since our foundation nearly 30 years ago, initially studying chromosomes and karyotypic evolution of ground-beetles (Coleoptera: Carabidae). Over time, we have expanded our scope to include molecular taxonomy, biogeography, ecology, and new animal groups in our studies.

Two main events have shaped our activity. Firstly, the rapid rise of molecular tools for investigating phylogenetic and evolutionary issues of any animal group, which led us to incorporate methods for molecular analyses, including sequencing techniques and bioinformatic tools for processing DNA data. Secondly, we incorporated honey bees as a main subject of research under the leadership of Dr. Pilar de la Rúa.

Population genetics, phylogeography, phylogeny, conservation measures, species identification, and other issues are among the outstanding productions of this research line, which was expanded towards other Hymenoptera (Meliponini, bumblebees) and geographic areas (South and Central America).

We have also incorporated colleagues with expertise in Forensic Entomology to address new challenges and perspectives. This has led to research lines dedicated to investigating forest pests, producing scientific articles, contracts with firms or enterprises, and obtaining patents related to traps for collecting these forest pests.

Some landmarks of our activity illustrate the high level of work we have carried out. In the last six years, we have published 59 articles in ranked journals, of which 31 are in journals situated in the first third. These achievements are the result of a joint and enthusiastic effort of senior and young scientists.

Despite the difficulties to attract young students during the past years, we have guided four pre-doctoral students awarded with Ministry support (FPU grants) and numerous master's thesis, final degree works, etc.

With this wide perspective in mind, we have applied for the Excellence contest of the Fundación Séneca, with an ambitious program of varied research activities (RAs):

1. Biodiversity and conservation of Hymenoptera including honey bees and bumblebees.
2. Evolutionary biology and genomics of the main groups of tiger beetles.
3. Integrative taxonomy, biogeography, and ecology of insects particularly on Lepidoptera and Coleoptera.
4. Phylogeography of necrophagous Diptera in the Iberian Peninsula.
5. Development of cell lines of insect species of economic interest and its application to forest pests.