Marisa Naia

I have a degree in Biology and a M.Sc. degree in Biodiversity, Genetics and Evolution, by the Faculty of Sciences of the University of Porto. During my MSc I addressed connectivity as a core strategy for biodiversity conservation in arid regions. The research was focused in priority areas for conservation and how to address conservation efforts to maximize the long-term persistence of aquatic biodiversity. For the following three years I worked in science communication in projects related with the use of ponds as a nature-based solution for ecosystem services delivery, biodiversity conservation and climate change mitigation. Simultaneously, I worked in environmental education about the importance of aquatic ecosystems and its species. Currently, I am developing my PhD project, which aims to integrate the landscape changes analysis and amphibian community characterisation of Mindelo Ornithological Reserve (Vila do Conde), with the development of citizen engagement activities through science communication to ensure science-based measures for amphibian conservation. My main research interests are biogeography, ecology and science communication and my main goal is to contribute directly to biodiversity conservation, sustainability and a more informed society.