Karma Jamtsho | Ecology | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Karma Jamtsho | Ecology | Best Researcher Award

PhD Student at ECU, Perth, Australia

Mr. Karma Jamtsho is a dedicated environmental researcher and PhD candidate at Edith Cowan University, Australia, specializing in sustainable interactions between natural and built environments. His doctoral research focuses on the impact of impervious surfaces on urban riparian plant communities, aiming to promote sustainable urban expansion through the Impact Tipping Point model. With a Master’s degree in Botany from Prince of Songkla University, he brings over a decade of experience in ecological research, environmental education, and field-based conservation across Bhutan, Thailand, and Australia. His professional background includes roles as a Research Assistant, Laboratory Technician, and Environmental Educator, showcasing his versatility and commitment to environmental sustainability. Proficient in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing, and plant taxonomy, Mr. Jamtsho combines strong analytical skills with practical field expertise. His international exposure and multidisciplinary approach position him as a promising researcher contributing valuable insights to the field of urban ecology and environmental conservation.

Professional Profile 

Education 🎓 

Mr. Karma Jamtsho has a strong academic background in environmental science and botany. He is currently pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Environmental Studies at Edith Cowan University, Australia, where his research focuses on the effects of urban development on riparian plant communities. His work aims to balance sustainable urban growth with the conservation of ecological systems. Prior to this, he earned a Master of Science in Botany from Prince of Songkla University, Thailand, where he conducted field-based ecological research in collaboration with the Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary in Bhutan. His postgraduate studies have equipped him with advanced knowledge in plant taxonomy, ecosystem management, and environmental impact analysis. This educational foundation, coupled with his practical experience, has enabled him to develop a multidisciplinary approach to solving complex environmental challenges. Mr. Jamtsho’s academic journey reflects his dedication to ecological research and his commitment to promoting sustainable environmental practices through scientific inquiry.

Professional Experience 💼 

Mr. Karma Jamtsho brings extensive professional experience in environmental research, education, and conservation. Currently serving as a Research Assistant at Edith Cowan University, Australia, he is involved in ecological fieldwork, data analysis, and reporting as part of his doctoral research. He also briefly worked as a Laboratory Technician, supporting scientific investigations through sample preparation and lab-based analyses. Prior to his academic role in Australia, Mr. Jamtsho served as an Environmental Educator under the Ministry of Education in Bhutan for over eight years, where he integrated environmental awareness into school curricula and community programs. His early career included work as a Graduate Student Researcher with the Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary in Bhutan and Prince of Songkla University in Thailand, conducting biodiversity assessments and conservation studies. His diverse roles across research, education, and applied ecology demonstrate a strong commitment to sustainable environmental practices and have provided him with valuable interdisciplinary and cross-cultural professional experience.

Research Interest 🔬

Mr. Karma Jamtsho’s research interests lie at the intersection of urban ecology, environmental sustainability, and plant biodiversity. He is particularly focused on understanding how urbanization, specifically the spread of impervious surfaces, affects riparian plant communities and ecosystem resilience. His current PhD research at Edith Cowan University explores these impacts through the application of the Impact Tipping Point model, aiming to inform sustainable urban planning that harmonizes development with ecological conservation. He is also deeply interested in the conservation of native plant species, plant taxonomy, and the use of geospatial technologies such as Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and remote sensing in environmental monitoring and landscape analysis. His earlier work in biodiversity conservation and ecological education in Bhutan further reflects his commitment to preserving natural habitats and promoting ecological awareness. Overall, Mr. Jamtsho’s research interests are driven by a desire to contribute scientifically grounded solutions to pressing environmental and sustainability challenges.

Research Skill🔎

Mr. Karma Jamtsho possesses a well-rounded set of research skills that support his work in environmental science and urban ecology. He is proficient in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and remote sensing, which he utilizes to analyze spatial patterns and environmental changes in urban and riparian landscapes. His strong background in plant taxonomy and identification enables accurate assessment of biodiversity and ecological health. Mr. Jamtsho is skilled in conducting fieldwork, including ecological surveys, vegetation sampling, and environmental impact assessments. He also has experience in laboratory techniques, gained during his role as a Laboratory Technician at Edith Cowan University, where he contributed to data collection and sample analysis. Additionally, he is adept at data interpretation, statistical analysis, and scientific report writing. His communication and analytical skills further enhance his ability to present findings effectively to academic and non-academic audiences. Collectively, these skills equip him to carry out high-quality, interdisciplinary environmental research.

Award and Honor🏆

Mr. Karma Jamtsho has earned recognition for his dedication to environmental research and education throughout his academic and professional journey. While specific named awards and honors have not been explicitly detailed, his selection for a competitive PhD program at Edith Cowan University reflects academic merit and research potential. His prior acceptance into the Master of Science program in Botany at Prince of Songkla University, Thailand, also suggests strong academic performance and international recognition of his capabilities. Additionally, his long tenure as an Environmental Educator under Bhutan’s Ministry of Education highlights the trust placed in him to promote sustainability education at a national level. His involvement in international research collaborations, such as those with Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary and institutions in Thailand and Australia, further demonstrates professional acknowledgment of his expertise. These milestones collectively illustrate the respect he has earned within the environmental research community and underscore his potential for future honors in the field.

Conclusion📝

The candidate demonstrates a solid and promising research trajectory with strengths in sustainable ecological research, technical skills, and international experience. Their work aligns well with contemporary global sustainability goals. However, for a Best Researcher Award, which often prioritizes demonstrated impact, publication record, and research leadership, the candidate may currently be more suitable for an Emerging Researcher or Promising Researcher Award rather than a top-tier “Best Researcher” recognition.

If this candidate continues their trajectory—publishing in high-impact journals, leading projects, and securing funding—they will likely be a strong contender for such an award in the near future.

Publications Top Noted📚

  • Jamtsho & Sridith, 2015 – 13 citations
    Exploring the patterns of alpine vegetation of Eastern Bhutan: a case study from the Merak Himalaya
    (SpringerPlus 4, 1–11)

  • Jamtsho, Lund, Blake & Van Etten, 2024 – 2 citations
    Microplastic pollution in riparian soils of the rapidly growing city of Thimphu, Bhutan
    (Water, Air, & Soil Pollution 235 (11), 714)

  • Jamtsho & Sridith, 2015 – 1 citation
    A note on the anthropogenic impacts on the native vascular plants in the Himalayan Range of Merak, Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary, Bhutan
    (Thai Journal of Botany 5 (1), 27–33)

  • Jamtsho, Lund, Blake & Van Etten, 2025 – 0 citations (as of now)
    Urbanisation and specifically impervious cover alter riparian plant communities in a rapidly urbanising landscape in the Himalayas
    (Urban Forestry & Urban Greening, 128862)

Jesse Kosgei | Ecology | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Jesse Kosgei | Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Fisheries and Coral Ecology Technical Lead at Wildlife Conservation Society, Kenya

Mr. Jesse Kiprono Kosgei is an accomplished marine ecologist and fisheries scientist with over a decade of experience in science-based conservation. He holds a Master’s degree in Fisheries from Pwani University and currently serves as the Technical Lead for Fisheries and Coral Ecology at the Wildlife Conservation Society – Kenya Marine Program. His expertise lies in small-scale fisheries, coral reef ecology, and the socioeconomics of marine resource use. Jesse has made significant contributions to ecological research, sustainable fisheries management, and data-driven conservation strategies across Kenya, Tanzania, and Mozambique. He has co-authored several peer-reviewed publications addressing pressing issues like climate change, resource sustainability, and fisheries policy. In addition to research, he plays a vital role in mentoring junior scientists, managing long-term datasets, and supporting global marine initiatives. Passionate about practical conservation solutions, Jesse combines technical skills, leadership, and regional collaboration to advance ecosystem resilience and community livelihoods in the Western Indian Ocean.

Professional Profile 

Education 🎓 

Mr. Jesse Kiprono Kosgei has a solid academic foundation in marine and fisheries sciences. He earned a Master of Science degree in Fisheries from Pwani University in Mombasa, Kenya, where he specialized in sustainable fisheries management and ecological research. Prior to that, he completed a Bachelor of Science degree in Coastal and Marine Resource Management at Kenyatta University in Nairobi, gaining comprehensive knowledge in marine ecosystems, conservation, and coastal resource use. To further enhance his technical capabilities, Jesse has pursued several professional certifications, including Social Safeguards and Community Engagement from the Wildlife Conservation Society, R Programming from Macquarie University, and Practical Tools in Quantitative Fisheries Stock Assessment from the University of Florida and Pwani University. He is also a certified diver through the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI), which supports his field research activities. His educational background reflects both academic excellence and a commitment to continuous learning in applied marine science.

Professional Experience 💼

Mr. Jesse Kiprono Kosgei has over a decade of professional experience in marine conservation, fisheries science, and ecological research. Since 2015, he has served as the Fisheries and Coral Ecologist Technical Lead at the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) – Kenya Marine Program, where he leads research initiatives, develops conservation strategies, and mentors junior scientists. His work spans Kenya, Tanzania, and Mozambique, involving the design and implementation of ecological and socioeconomic monitoring programs. Jesse manages and analyzes over 30 years of data on coral reefs, fish, and sea urchins, applying advanced statistical and machine learning tools to inform conservation policies. Prior to WCS, he worked as a Research Assistant at the Kenya Fisheries Service, where he managed fish catch data and supported national fisheries assessments. He also gained early field experience as an intern at the Kenya Marine Fisheries Research Institute. His professional journey demonstrates a deep commitment to data-driven, impact-oriented marine conservation.

Research Interest 🔬

Mr. Jesse Kiprono Kosgei’s research interests center on marine ecology, small-scale fisheries, and the human dimensions of marine resource management. He is particularly focused on the sustainable use and conservation of coral reef ecosystems in the Western Indian Ocean. His work aims to establish ecological baselines, assess the impacts of fishing practices, and set sustainable fisheries targets that align with ecosystem health and community livelihoods. Jesse is also interested in the integration of socioeconomic data with ecological indicators to inform holistic, adaptive marine management strategies. He has explored topics such as bycatch reduction, the effects of gear subsidies, fisheries responses to environmental and policy changes, and the role of compliance in conservation outcomes. His research combines field-based data collection, long-term monitoring, and advanced analytics, including machine learning, to generate practical solutions for fisheries sustainability. Ultimately, his goal is to support science-based policies that enhance ecosystem resilience and benefit coastal communities.

Research Skill🔎

Mr. Jesse Kiprono Kosgei possesses a diverse and robust set of research skills that span ecological fieldwork, data analysis, and conservation planning. He is highly proficient in designing and implementing ecological and socioeconomic surveys related to coral reef health, fisheries, and coastal resource use. His expertise includes managing and analyzing complex datasets, including over 30 years of historical ecological data, using advanced statistical tools and machine learning techniques. Jesse is skilled in programming with R, enabling him to conduct quantitative stock assessments and generate data-driven insights to inform fisheries management. He has experience in digitizing monitoring tools and developing innovative approaches to track and assess conservation outcomes. Additionally, his diving certification enhances his ability to conduct in situ marine ecosystem assessments. Jesse is also adept at producing peer-reviewed scientific publications and technical reports, contributing to both academic knowledge and practical policy guidance. His research skills reflect strong analytical, technical, and field-based capabilities.

Award and Honor🏆

Mr. Jesse Kiprono Kosgei’s profile does not list formal awards or honors, his career achievements and contributions reflect significant professional recognition and impact within the marine conservation and fisheries science community. Serving as the Technical Lead for Fisheries and Coral Ecology at the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) – Kenya Marine Program is itself a testament to his leadership and expertise. His co-authorship in high-impact peer-reviewed journals alongside internationally respected scientists demonstrates the high regard for his research contributions. Jesse has also played key roles in regional and global conservation initiatives, and his mentorship of students and young scientists adds to his professional standing. His involvement in long-term ecological monitoring, data management, and sustainable fisheries strategies has made him a valued contributor to evidence-based environmental policy. While not yet formally decorated with awards, his growing influence and proven track record make him a strong candidate for future honors and recognitions in the field.

Conclusion📝

Mr. Jesse Kiprono Kosgei is a highly qualified and impactful researcher whose work has made meaningful contributions to marine conservation and sustainable fisheries management in East Africa. His scientific rigor, leadership, and applied research make him a strong contender for a Best Researcher Award. However, greater visibility through first-author publications, academic affiliations, and recognized honors would further solidify his candidacy.

Publications Top Noted📚

  • Coral reef fish communities, diversity, and their fisheries and biodiversity status in East Africa
    Author(s): TR McClanahan
    Journal: Marine Ecology Progress Series
    Year: 2019
    Cited by: 41

  • Improving sustainable yield estimates for tropical reef fisheries
    Author(s): TR McClanahan, MK Azali
    Journal: Fish and Fisheries
    Year: 2020
    Cited by: 20

  • Community biomass and life history benchmarks for coral reef fisheries
    Author(s): TR McClanahan
    Journal: Fish and Fisheries
    Year: 2018
    Cited by: 19

  • Perceptions of governance effectiveness and fisheries restriction options in a climate refugia
    Author(s): T McClanahan, C Abunge
    Journal: Biological Conservation
    Year: 2020
    Cited by: 16

  • Outcomes of gear and closure subsidies in artisanal coral reef fisheries
    Author(s): TR McClanahan, JK Kosgei
    Journal: Conservation Science and Practice
    Year: 2019
    Cited by: 16

  • Redistribution of benefits but not detection in a fisheries bycatch-reduction management initiative
    Author(s): TR McClanahan, JK Kosgei
    Journal: Conservation Biology
    Year: 2018
    Cited by: 13

  • Low optimal fisheries yield creates challenges for sustainability in a climate refugia
    Author(s): TR McClanahan, JK Kosgei
    Journal: Conservation Science and Practice
    Year: 2023
    Cited by: 7

  • Fish catch responses to Covid-19 disease curfews dependent on compliance, fisheries management, and environmental contexts
    Author(s): TR McClanahan, MK Azali, JK Kosgei
    Journal: Marine Policy
    Year: 2022
    Cited by: 5

  • Challenges to managing fisheries with high inter-community variability on the Kenya-Tanzania border
    Author(s): TR McClanahan, RM Oddenyo, JK Kosgei
    Journal: Current Research in Environmental Sustainability
    Year: 2024
    Cited by: 3

  • Fisheries sustainability eroded by lost catch proportionality in a coral reef seascape
    Author(s): TR McClanahan, JK Kosgei, AT Humphries
    Journal: Sustainability
    Year: 2025
    Cited by: 1

  • Variation in coral reef fisheries production, employment, and living wage goals
    Author(s): TR McClanahan, JK Kosgei
    Journal: [Not specified]
    Year: 2025
    Cited by: Not listed

  • Challenges of Implementing Fisheries and Coastal Management Policies in Climate Refuge on an International Boundary
    Author(s): TR McClanahan, RM Oddenyo, JK Kosgei
    Journal: SSRN (Preprint)
    Year: 2024
    Cited by: Not listed

  • Fisheries Sustainability Eroded by the Loss of Vulnerable Dominant Taxa and Insufficient Compensatory Production in a Coral Reef Seascape
    Author(s): T McClanahan, JK Kosgei, AT Humphries
    Journal: MDPI AG
    Year: [Not specified]
    Cited by: Not listed