We are ecologists passionate about the beauty and biodiversity of the nature. We are curious about various questions on biodiversity, such as why are there so many species in the tropics but less in other areas, are there simple rules determining the responses of various species to environmental change, how will climate change affect biodiversity and their consequences for ecosystem functioning and human wellbeing. We explore these questions by observation, experiments and theoretical modeling, usually in terrestial forests and sometimes in coastal wetlands. We encourage and respect the diversity of ideas and perspectives within our team, which we believe would enhace both creativity and happiness.