Between Science and Motherhood

Between a Love for Science and the Commitment of Motherhood

Andrea Daniela, or “Andreita” as she is affectionately called, is a clear example that passion for work and dedication to family can coexist—even when the path is not always easy. As a committed scientist and mother of two, Andrea carefully balances her professional career with the responsibilities of motherhood, supported by the flexibility that the Charles Darwin Foundation (CDF) offers its staff to harmonize work, study, and personal life.

A Path Marked by Passion

Since she was a child, Andrea Daniela felt a special connection with animals—something common among the people of the Galapagos archipelago. Although she initially dreamed of becoming a veterinarian, her passion led her to study Biology at the Escuela Superior Politécnica del Litoral (ESPOL).

“I decided Biology was for me. I love working with birds, especially in field monitoring and research. That’s why my thesis was titled Observations on the nesting of the Galapagos dove (Zenaida galapagoensis), and I graduated in 2017,” says Andrea.

Her relationship with the Charles Darwin Foundation began in 2014, when she applied to volunteer. Since then, she has had a remarkable journey: participating as a volunteer, collaborating in seabird monitoring, and working on her thesis in the terrestrial bird program. Today, she is a key member of the marine bird research project, serving as a Junior Researcher.

Her work includes tasks such as preparing equipment and logistics for field trips, supporting population monitoring of marine and lagoon birds, assisting with bird capture and tagging, collecting field data, managing databases, drafting monitoring reports, and working closely with her team.

“Every field trip is a challenge—long workdays under the intense sun, and handling the species with great care to avoid causing them stress, always thinking about their wellbeing. It’s definitely a job that’s worth it,” Andrea affirms.

“Sometimes I’m also a psychologist, a mom, and a counselor. In the office and in the field, we’re like a family,” she laughs, highlighting the strong spirit of mutual support at the CDF.

Motherhood: A Transformative Challenge

Becoming a mother in 2019 added a new dimension to her professional life. Before, fieldwork was simple: just a backpack and her enthusiasm for research. Now, leaving her children behind in Puerto Ayora, the town where she lives, is one of the hardest parts of her job—a challenge shared by many other scientist mothers.

Fortunately, Andrea has the unwavering support of her own mother, who cares for her little ones during her absence, and the flexibility of CDF, which understands the needs of its staff, especially those with children. This support network has allowed her to maintain balance between her career and her family, though the worry that her children might need her while she’s out in the field is always present.

“I love my job and I love my children, but I want to grow in both. I don’t want to stay stuck,” she says with determination.

The Privilege of Being a Galapagos Resident

As a permanent resident of Galapagos, Andrea deeply values the unique opportunities her origin has given her. For her, being Galapagueña is not just a label on her ID—it is a responsibility and a motivation to make the most of the opportunities she’s been given.

“There are many people who want to be here, working alongside scientists passionate about the conservation of our species, and traveling to remote areas to study and protect the world’s unique flora and fauna—but they can’t, because they aren’t residents. If you have that privilege, you should take advantage of it,” Andrea reflects.

Her role as a Galapagos native is also vital for building bridges between the local community and science, inspiring new generations to train and get involved in conservation projects that benefit not only the islands, but also the planet.

Her message to local youth is clear: passion and commitment are essential. Being from Galapagos is not enough—you need a true love for nature and a genuine desire to make a difference. She also emphasizes that the CDF offers job opportunities where mothers can grow professionally without giving up their personal and family life.

A Legacy for Conservation

Andrea is not just a scientist; she’s a devoted mother and an inspiration for those seeking to balance personal passions and professional growth. Her work in the Marine and Lagoon Bird Conservation Project contributes not only to the knowledge and protection of endangered species such as the albatross but also leaves a powerful example for her children: the value of effort, dedication, and love for nature.

With every monitoring session and report she prepares, Andrea not only protects the biodiversity of Galapagos but also strengthens the Charles Darwin Foundation’s reputation as a global leader in the conservation of this World Heritage Site.

Her story reminds us that, even when the path is challenging, it is possible to build a meaningful legacy while honoring both family and science.

On this special day, we recognize the work of all the mothers at the Charles Darwin Foundation who, in their many roles and despite the challenges they face, contribute each day to fulfilling the Foundation’s mission—with knowledge, excellence, and care.