A PhD student in geography at Aix Marseille University, Lea Wester looks at informal transportation systems using a theoretical and quantitative geographical approach. Her research is largely based on case studies, and Lima and Brazzaville in particular. By focusing specifically on the modeling of spatial structures and dynamics, she is developing an approach through self-organization and complex systems. She is currently working on individual-based modeling tools applied to the emergence of non-institutional public transportation.