Maria joined the Charles Darwin Foundation in September 2024, bringing her extensive experience in bird conservation. Originally from Spain, she has worked for over six years on international projects in Spain, Colombia, France, French Polynesia and Costa Rica.
With a degree in Environmental Sciences from the University of Valencia and a master's degree in Ecology and Biodiversity Management from the University of Montpellier, Maria has specialized in the protection of endemic and threatened birds in Pacific island ecosystems. She has led projects to preserve critically endangered species, highlighting her work in managing a population of only four breeding pairs, where she identified avian malaria as a new critical threat and initiated a captive breeding project.
Her ability to work with international teams and collaborate with local communities has been key to the success of her initiatives. As the coordinator of the Mangrove Finch recovery project, her goal is to apply effective management strategies and research to improve the conservation status of this species and contribute to the Foundation's success in preserving biodiversity.

With over eighteen years of experience as a software developer and a degree in Computer Engineering, as well as a Master's in Systems Management, Mauro has held prominent roles as the head of the development area in public entities. His career has focused on creating high-performance solutions, specializing in the design and implementation of robust and efficient software architectures. He has led teams in the successful delivery of projects that have transformed the operations and services of various organizations, standing out for his commitment to technical excellence and continuous innovation in software development.
In addition to his professional background, Mauro has a passion for the piano and mathematics, interests that enrich his analytical approach and his ability to solve complex problems. He joined the Charles Darwin Foundation on August 1, 2024, bringing his experience and knowledge to contribute to technological advancement and process optimization.

Elena is a distinguished professional in the field of Accounting and Finance, currently serving as Accounting Supervisor at the Charles Darwin Foundation. With over 10 years of experience in the industry, she has built a solid career across both the private and public sectors.
A graduate in Commercial Engineering from the International University of Quito, Elena is a member of the Otavalo indigenous community. She has worked in various roles, ranging from independent accountant to administrator, collaborating with organizations such as the Franciscan Mission and Radio Santa Cruz. In the public sector, she has held significant positions as an accounting assistant and financial analyst at the Galápagos National Park.
Her professional focus is centered on contributing her expertise and knowledge to the growth and success of the Charles Darwin Foundation, while also inspiring those around her to continue learning and developing in their respective fields.
Outside of her professional life, she is passionate about sports and strongly believes in discipline as the key to achieving goals and overcoming challenges. In her free time, she enjoys spending quality moments with her family, always seeking a balance between her professional and personal life.

Carolina joined the Charles Darwin Foundation (CDF) in October 2024 as a Senior Researcher in Social Sciences and Fisheries. She is passionate about ethnographic work, the design and application of innovative and creative research methodologies and techniques, as well as qualitative data analysis, reflective dialogue for social transformation, the generation of collective knowledge, and participatory processes for development.
Both in research and community service, her work has considers gender, social contexts, cultural background, and places, with different social groups and work teams from diverse knowledge areas and disciplines. She is a lecturer at the Faculty of Humanities of the Pontifical Catholic University of Ecuador since 2010. Her academic journey began with an anthropology degree from the same university, followed by a master's in Social Sciences with a specialization in Gender and Development at FLACSO Ecuador.

Patricio Picón-Rentería has been an entomologist at the Charles Darwin Foundation since October 2024, and is currently working in the Scalesia Forest Restoration and Terrestrial Invasive Species programme. He started volunteering with CDF in 2018, and has since worked as a researcher at the Escuela Superior Politécnica de Chimborazo (ESPOCH) on the study of the order Hymenoptera in the Galapagos Islands, in collaboration with CDF. His work has contributed to the knowledge of the biodiversity of insects in these islands, especially that of microwasps. Patricio received his B.Sc. in Biology with a major in Ecology and Management from the Universidad de Azuay and his M.Sc. in Biological Sciences from the Universidad Nacional de Colombia.

Jhonatan is a professional with roots in Loja, where he developed a deep love for nature from a young age. His training as a technologist prepared him to contribute to environmental conservation, blending his dedication with responsible practices in organic farming.

As a Field Assistant, he focuses on controlling introduced species and on the production and reforestation of native and endemic plants, playing a key role in ecosystem restoration.

Colombian botanist with a deep passion for the ecology and floristic diversity of tropical forests.
In November 2024, she joined the Charles Darwin Foundation (CDF) as a collections assistant at the Herbarium of the Charles Darwin Research Station (CDS), where she actively contributes to the care, expansion, and study of the botanical collection of the Galapagos Islands.
Prior to joining the CDF, she gained four years of experience as a herbarium assistant in Colombia, specializing in plant collection, drying, mounting, and maintenance of botanica specimens. Her research focuses on the functional ecology of liana and tree seedlings in Tropical Dry Forests (TDF).

Arianna is a biologist passionate about marine conservation and climate change research. She joined the Charles Darwin Foundation (CDF) in November 2024 as a Field Assistant in the Sea Turtle Project, where she continues to work on research focused on climate change and anthropogenic threats to these iconic species. Previously, Arianna participated as a volunteer at the CDF, collaborating on the same project, which strengthened her commitment to protecting marine biodiversity.
During her undergraduate studies, she worked on research related to marine ecology and physiology, including an international project that assessed the impact of ocean acidification on commercially important species in Ecuador, contributing to the understanding of marine ecosystem resilience to climate change.
Her experience reflects a comprehensive approach to applied research and conservation, aiming to support the sustainable management of marine resources. In her free time, she enjoys exploring the natural environment of the Galápagos Islands.

Katherine Rezabala is a research assistant for the Shark Ecology and Shark Talk Project at the Charles Darwin Foundation, where she joined as a volunteer in August 2023. During this time, she has developed key skills in analyzing BRUVS and DOVS videos, excelling in the identification and counting of fish species, a task she performs with enthusiasm and dedication.

She holds a degree in Marine Biology, which has provided her with a solid theoretical and practical foundation to tackle professional challenges. Her experience includes an eight-month volunteer position at the Galápagos National Park, where she gained valuable knowledge about the conservation and importance of species in the Galápagos Islands.

Passionate about nature, Katherine enjoys activities such as cycling, camping, and, most of all, connecting with the ocean. These experiences help her maintain a balance between her professional and personal life, enriching her perspective and motivation.

Her goal is to continue growing both personally and professionally, contributing to the positive impact of the Charles Darwin Foundation. With effort and dedication, she aims to expand the foundation's support network and achieve new goals that promote the conservation and understanding of marine ecosystems.

Andrés joined the CDF in 2024 as a Fisheries Scientist for the Habla Tiburón project, collaborating with the Shark Ecology team. He holds a Master’s degree in Marine Resources Management from CICIMAR-IPN and his main interests are research and conservation of sharks, as well as sustainable fisheries.
Andrés has extensive experience working with both small- and large-scale fisheries. He has served as an observer aboard tuna purse-seine vessels, a fisheries inspector for government monitoring programs, and a scientist sampling artisanal fishing ports along the Ecuadorian coast. His research has focused on the life history traits of pelagic sharks and small coastal rays.
Before joining CDF, Andrés worked with large fisheries databases at the IATTC, gaining hands-on experience with the complexities and scientific challenges involved in the management of pelagic fisheries.

Edwin is a Fisheries Scientist for the "Habla Tiburón" project since June 2024. He has a bachelor's degree in Fisheries Biology from the Universidad Laica Eloy Alfaro de Manabí in 2009, as well as a postgraduate degree in Environmental Management from the same university in cooperation with the Universidad del Mar of Chile in 2015, a specialization in Sustainable Fisheries Management obtained at the Mediterranean Agronomic Institute of Zaragoza - CIHEAM in 2018, and a Master's degree in Sustainable Fisheries Management from the University of Alicante, Spain completed in 2019.

His latest postgraduate study focused on determining catch rates, interannual and spatial variation of large pelagics caught by the Ecuadorian longline fleet in the Eastern Pacific Ocean.

He also has thirteen years of work experience in the fisheries sector in Ecuador, carrying out activities related to the formulation, execution, monitoring, and evaluation of public investment projects; observation, monitoring, and control of artisanal and industrial fishing activities; as well as advisory and technical management of fisheries in mainland Ecuador.

To Mario, meeting new people and offering his help is what he always strives for, furthermore,  implementing his knowledge to create personalized solutions to unique problems is what he loves to do. January 6 of 2025 is when he joined the Charles Darwin Foundation (CDF) as a Human Resources Assistant to bring his knowledge and support to the requests and activities that are needed as a Human Resources Assistant . Mario has an Engineering degree in Computer Science.

Yuliana is a passionate nature enthusiast who enjoys the beauty of landscapes, walking along the beach, and feeling the ocean breeze. Her deep love and respect for the Galápagos Islands are reflected in the names of her two daughters, Isabela and Floreana, symbolizing her commitment to conserving this unique archipelago.
She holds a degree in Tourism Business Administration from the Catholic University of Santiago de Guayaquil and a Diploma in Project Management from the University of the Americas.
With over 10 years of experience working in non-governmental organizations, Yuliana specializes in Project Administration. In January 2025, she joined the Charles Darwin Foundation as the Administrative Assistant for the Deep Ocean Program.
Her greatest aspiration is to contribute to the conservation of the Galápagos Islands and to ensure that future generations continue to protect this invaluable natural legacy.

Erika de la Cruz is a marine biologist and conservation enthusiast with a particular interest in fishing practices that promote the conservation of marine ecosystems and the well-being of communities. In 2024, she joined the Charles Darwin Foundation's “Shark Ecology” project as a volunteer for a period of one year, which was full of challenges and learning for her.Currently she is working as a Research Assistant for the project.
During her time at the Universidad Laica Eloy Alfaro de Manabí, she built fundamental bases for her profession, acquiring experience in monitoring sharks and rays in Manta with the scientific research group ShaRep. In 2021, Erika volunteered with the Galapagos National Park Directorate in monitoring sea turtles, this experience, besides being incredible, was enriching, especially in activities in remote areas.
Erika loves the sea, its sunsets and the magnificent colors it displays. She also enjoys activities such as scuba diving, cycling, gym, reading and learning more every day.
Protecting our oceans is protecting the future of life on Earth and it is a commitment we must make today to ensure a healthy and prosperous future for all.

Andrea Daniela is an Ecuadorian biologist with extensive experience in seabird monitoring and management of emerging diseases in wildlife. She graduated from the Escuela Superior Politécnica del Litoral (ESPOL), where she developed a deep interest in bird conservation and ecology.
Since 2014, Andrea has collaborated with the Charles Darwin Foundation (CDF), initially as a volunteer and thesis student in various research projects focused on the marine and terrestrial ecosystems of the Galapagos Islands. In 2023, she joined the Seabird and Lagoon Bird Project as a researcher, contributing to the study and monitoring of emblematic species such as the Galapagos penguin, the flightless cormorant, and the Galapagos albatross. This project aims to assess the populations of these birds and the threats they face in the long term.
Andrea's work focuses on the conservation of biodiversity in the Galapagos, with a particular focus on the health of birds and their interaction with marine ecosystems. Motivated by her commitment to nature, Andrea aspires to expand her experience in conservation, strengthening her knowledge and skills to further contribute to the protection of biodiversity in vulnerable ecosystems.

Mara is a visual storyteller with a passion for capturing the beauty and conservation efforts of the Galápagos Islands. She graduated from Colorado State University in May 2022 with a B.A. in Journalism and Media Communications, along with a second field in Cultural Communications. In February 2025, Mara joined the Charles Darwin Foundation (CDF) as an audiovisual production assistant in the communications department.

Before joining CDF, Mara worked with other NGOs in the Galápagos, documenting their conservation efforts. She uses her lens to showcase CDF's mission and the unique environment of the islands. She speaks native English and Spanish.

María Sol Herrera is an entomologist at the Charles Darwin Foundation and has been working in the Terrestrial Invasive Species and Scalesia Forest Restoration program since February 2025. She started as a volunteer at the CDF in September 2024, collaborating in the identification of terrestrial invertebrates, especially beetles (Order Coleoptera), collected during the annual monitoring of the Scalesia forest on Santa Cruz Island. María Sol obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Biology at the Universidad Estatal Amazónica and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Education at the Universidad Estatal de Milagro.

Jonathan Cueva is an Ecuadorian biologist specializing in the conservation of terrestrial and marine birds, with extensive experience in wildlife management and the application of innovative field methodologies. He earned his degree in Conservation Biology from the Universidad Técnica Particular de Loja and obtained a Master’s degree in Biological Diversity and the Environment from the University of Málaga (Spain).
Throughout his career, he has focused on the protection of endemic species and the restoration of fragile ecosystems, with special emphasis on the Galápagos Islands. His conservation experience has been enriched by international internships, ranging from feline rehabilitation in the Peruvian Amazon to avian cognition studies at the Konrad Lorenz Center.
He has contributed to scientific publications, conferences, and training programs on raptor handling, consolidating a multidisciplinary approach to his work. Since July 2024, he has been part of the Marine Birds team as a Research Assistant, with the aim of strengthening innovative strategies for the preservation of island birds and promoting solutions that balance ecosystem health with the needs of local communities.

Jonathan Oswaldo Salazar holds a degree in Accounting and Auditing Engineering (CPA) and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Auditing as well as a Diploma in Financial Planning. His academic background and professional experience are focused on contributing knowledge and skills to support the achievement of objectives in projects, companies, and social organizations.
He currently serves as an Accounting Assistant at the Charles Darwin Foundation, a role he considers a valuable opportunity to contribute to the organization's conservation and institutional efforts.
Previously, Jonathan worked as a Finance Officer at the Fundación Un Cambio Por La Vida in Guayaquil. He also held the position of Audit Assistant at Corporación El Rosado, and Accounting Assistant at Multimetales S.A. Additionally, he has worked independently in professional freelance services, demonstrating a strong commitment to excellence and service.
Jonathan is happily married and the father of a four-year-old son. A passionate football (soccer) fan, he enjoys connecting with others and deeply values teamwork and community.

Environmental Educommunicator at the Charles Darwin Foundation since march 2025. She holds a degree in Educational Sciences and has over 10 years of experience designing and implementing innovative educational projects in both Galápagos and Quito. A specialist in active learning methodologies such as Project-Based Learning (PBL), as well as Waldorf and Montessori pedagogical approaches, she has developed programs that integrate conservation, art, and science to strengthen emotional and cognitive connections with nature.
Her work bridges education and communication, excelling in the creation of educational materials, specialized translations, and cultural projects. In Quito, she conducted research on gastronomic and musical heritage, while in Galápagos she has led environmental educommunication strategies aimed at raising ecological awareness. Her academic background in Linguistic Communication and Literature enriches her pedagogical perspective, allowing her to connect scientific knowledge with accessible narratives for diverse audiences.
Dedicated to transformative education, she seeks to inspire meaningful environmental action through creative and impactful experiences.