Franklin Terán

Research Assistant

He has been an integral part of the Ecological Monitoring and Invasive Marine Species project since 2017, initially joining as a scholarship recipient. In that inaugural year, he embarked on a research journey by developing his bachelor's thesis, delving into the analysis of trophic networks and investigating potential biological control agents for potentially harmful introduced species.

In 2020, he proudly graduated with a degree in biology from the Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador in Quito. Demonstrating a strong commitment to marine research and conservation, he returned to the Charles Darwin Foundation to assume the role of a Research Assistant.

His academic background and professional pursuits converge on the application of advanced technologies in ecological studies. Specifically, he is deeply engaged in leveraging photogrammetry techniques for constructing accurate 3D models of coral reefs situated around the archipelago. Additionally, he has a keen interest in utilizing Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to unravel patterns and insights within the marine-coastal environment.

His research efforts are unequivocally directed towards the preservation of the extraordinary biodiversity thriving in the Galapagos Marine Reserve. By seamlessly blending academic prowess with practical fieldwork, he contributes significantly to ongoing initiatives aimed at safeguarding this unique and fragile ecosystem.