Welcome Prof. Dr Jonathan Henshaw, Professor of Theoretical Biology
Freiburg, 29/04/2026
Jonathan Henshaw has been Professor of Theoretical Biology at the Institute of Biology since March 2026. In this interview, he talks about how his research can help improve the evolutionary-biological understanding of diverse sexual behavior in animals, what he hopes to pass on to his students, and why science continues to occupy his thoughts even in his private life.
Prof. Dr Jonathan Henshaw, Professor of Theoretical Biology. Photo: Klaus Polkowski / University of Freiburg
What excites you about your research?
As a theoretical evolutionary biologist, I study the diversity of life and investigate mating strategies, sexual behaviour and parental care in the animal kingdom using mathematical models and computer simulations. I find one striking contrast particularly fascinating: the diversity of life seems virtually boundless due to the almost unimaginable number and variety of organisms, yet at the same time it is governed by clear laws. I am keen to gain a better understanding of both sides – both the patterns and the diversity surrounding them – in order to comprehend how evolution shapes our world.
In the event that your research provides solutions, which ones have you discovered in your research for current and future challenges?
We humans are characterised by a high degree of diversity in our partner preferences. However, current research shows that we are not alone in this: sexual behaviour in nature is generally very diverse. Same-sex sexual behaviour, for example, is widespread and has been observed in various mammals, birds, fish, reptiles, amphibians and insects. Theoretical and empirical studies also show that it can fulfil various evolutionary functions. Through my work, I aim to deepen the evolutionary biological understanding of diverse sexual behaviour and raise awareness of sexual diversity, including among humans.
What advice would you like to give your students and what do you personally take away from teaching?
I would particularly like to help them improve their quantitative skills so that they can use and interpret models and statistics critically. For me, teaching is a collaborative process. For example, I feel I have to completely overhaul my teaching of statistics almost every year, as Artificial Intelligence offers new approaches. My students are curious and, in some cases, already experienced users of this technology so I enjoy discussing with them how we can integrate it in a productive fashion.
What topics are you currently most interested in outside of your research?
My interest in diversity and science is also reflected in my personal life, albeit in a completely different sphere. I am a part of the iNaturalist online community, which allows users to document their observations of animals, plants and fungi in the wild. As an observer and identifier, people can step into the role of a citizen scientist, a lay researcher who provides scientists with relevant data for their work.
What are you particularly looking forward to in Freiburg?
I was previously a junior professor at the University of Freiburg, so I’m not exactly ‘brand new’ here. I’m particularly looking forward to working with the new generations of researchers and developing new ideas and perspectives together.
Info box
Name: Prof. Dr Jonathan Henshaw
Professorship: Theoretical Biology
Research focus: Causes and consequences of natural selection, sexual selection and the evolution of mating systems, the evolution of parental care