Cultural Specialist icon Cultural Specialist

Andreas Gudmundsson Gähwiller

An Icelander and a biologist to the core, Andreas grew up in Reykjavik and has always had a great fascination with the biology and history around him. From a young age, Andreas had a keen interest in the Icelandic sagas and folktales, exploring the locations described therein on numerous hikes and travels all across Iceland, from the birthplaces of heroes such as Snorri Sturluson, to the mythical homes of the elves in the highlands.

These days, Andreas is studying the biota and ecology of Icelandic geothermal areas, such as Geysir and the surroundings of the Blue Lagoon, with a focus on ants. This research is conducted under the auspices of the University of Iceland, where Andreas works as a teacher and researcher. His studies on the ecology of ants have in recent years also taken him abroad, to Madagascar, Malaysia, and French Guiana, among other natural paradises.

Andreas is part of the Icelandic Air and Mountain Rescue Team which specializes in search and rescue operations by both land and air. Through this training, Andreas has had the opportunity to undergo specialist training in navigation, first aid, swift water and wilderness rescue.