Norma Inés Hilgert | Ethnobotany | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Norma Inés Hilgert | Ethnobotany | Best Researcher Award

Investigador Principal at Instituto de Biología Subtropical, CONICET-UNaM-, Argentina

Dr. Norma Inés Hilgert is a distinguished researcher specializing in ethnobiology, focusing on the dynamic relationship between indigenous communities and subtropical forest ecosystems in Argentina. With a PhD in Biological Sciences, she has dedicated her career to studying biocultural conservation, sustainable use of non-timber forest products, and the socio-ecological impacts of traditional practices on biodiversity. Affiliated with CONICET and the Instituto de Biología Subtropical, Dr. Hilgert integrates ecological, cultural, and socio-economic perspectives in her interdisciplinary research. She holds associate professorships at prominent Argentine universities, where she teaches and mentors graduate students in ethnoecology and research methodologies. Her work emphasizes the conservation of landscapes through community engagement and sustainable resource management. Through national and regional collaborations, she contributes significantly to biodiversity conservation and environmental education. Dr. Hilgert’s research not only advances scientific knowledge but also supports the preservation of cultural heritage, making her a leading figure in her field with strong academic and societal impact.

Professional Profile 

Education 🎓 

Dr. Norma Inés Hilgert holds a robust academic background in biological sciences, beginning with her undergraduate degree in Biological Sciences from the Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, where she specialized in community ecology. She completed this degree in 1992, laying the foundation for her future research in ecology and ethnobiology. In 1999, Dr. Hilgert earned her doctorate in Biological Sciences from the same university, with a dissertation focused on the ethnobotanical uses of plants among rural communities in the Salta province of Argentina. Her doctoral research explored the relationship between local subsistence practices and plant resources, highlighting her early commitment to the integration of cultural and ecological knowledge. Following her PhD, she pursued postdoctoral studies centered on medicinal plants within therapeutic systems at CONICET, further expanding her expertise in ethnobiology and plant conservation. Dr. Hilgert has also completed numerous specialized courses and research stays, including training in plant domestication and genetic resource management, which have enriched her interdisciplinary approach to biodiversity and conservation science.

Professional Experience 💼 

Dr. Norma Inés Hilgert has an extensive professional career centered on ethnobiology and biodiversity conservation, primarily within Argentina’s subtropical forests. She is a researcher at CONICET and the Instituto de Biología Subtropical (IBS), where she leads and participates in interdisciplinary projects examining the sustainable use of forest resources and the socio-ecological relationships of indigenous and local communities. In academia, Dr. Hilgert holds associate professor positions at the Universidad Nacional de Misiones and the Universidad Nacional de Jujuy, teaching courses in ethnoecology, research methodology, and scientific knowledge at undergraduate and postgraduate levels. She supervises graduate theses and contributes to curriculum development, including specialized diplomas such as Sustainable Meliponiculture. Her research spans diverse topics, from the conservation of wild plant populations to the role of traditional ecological knowledge in landscape management. Dr. Hilgert’s work bridges scientific inquiry and community engagement, reflecting a commitment to both academic excellence and practical conservation outcomes.

Research Interest 🔬

Dr. Norma Inés Hilgert’s research interests lie at the intersection of ethnobiology, conservation biology, and sustainable resource management. She focuses on understanding the intricate relationships between indigenous and local communities and their natural environments within the subtropical forests of Argentina, including the Atlantic Forest, Chaco, and Yungas regions. Her work explores how traditional knowledge and cultural practices contribute to biodiversity conservation, emphasizing the concept of conservation through sustainable use of non-timber forest products such as plants and wild honey. Dr. Hilgert investigates the socio-ecological dynamics of human-forest interactions, including the management of wild populations of key species like Euterpe edulis and the impact of landscape fragmentation on genetic diversity. Additionally, she is interested in the role of ethnoecology in environmental education and intercultural bilingual programs, aiming to integrate scientific and traditional knowledge for better conservation outcomes. Her interdisciplinary approach combines ecological, cultural, and socio-economic perspectives to promote biocultural conservation and sustainable development.

Research Skill🔎

Dr. Norma Inés Hilgert possesses a comprehensive set of research skills that enable her to conduct interdisciplinary studies at the nexus of ethnobiology, ecology, and conservation science. She is highly skilled in qualitative and quantitative research methods, including ethnographic fieldwork, participatory observation, and interviews to document traditional ecological knowledge and cultural practices of indigenous and local communities. Her expertise extends to ecological data collection and analysis, focusing on plant population dynamics, biodiversity assessment, and landscape fragmentation. Dr. Hilgert is proficient in managing and analyzing complex datasets related to genetic diversity and resource use patterns. She also excels in designing and implementing multidisciplinary research projects that integrate social and biological sciences. Her skills in scientific writing, grant proposal development, and dissemination of results through academic publications and presentations are well established. Additionally, Dr. Hilgert has strong mentoring capabilities, guiding students and collaborators in research methodologies, contributing to capacity building in conservation and ethnobiology.

Award and Honor🏆

Dr. Norma Inés Hilgert has been recognized for her significant contributions to ethnobiology and biodiversity conservation through various awards and honors over her career. As a respected researcher at CONICET, Argentina’s premier scientific research institution, she has gained national recognition for her impactful studies on the sustainable use of forest resources and the integration of traditional ecological knowledge in conservation practices. Her academic excellence is further highlighted by her associate professorships at leading Argentine universities, where she has been honored for her dedication to teaching and mentoring graduate students. Dr. Hilgert’s work has also been acknowledged in scientific communities through invitations to participate in conferences, workshops, and collaborative networks focused on conservation and ethnobiology. Although specific awards may not be detailed in her CV, her sustained leadership in interdisciplinary research, combined with her contributions to community-based conservation and environmental education, positions her as a distinguished scientist deserving of prestigious accolades in her field.

Conclusion📝

Dr. Norma Ines Hilgert demonstrates a strong candidacy for the Best Researcher Award given her solid academic background, focused and impactful research in ethnobiology and biodiversity conservation, and her leadership roles in higher education. Her work significantly contributes to understanding and preserving subtropical forest ecosystems through an interdisciplinary approach integrating social and biological sciences.

To maximize her competitiveness for the award, enhancing her international profile and providing clear quantitative research metrics will be beneficial. Overall, she is highly suitable and deserving recognition for her contributions to science, conservation, and education.

Publications Top Noted📚

  • Chamorro, F.J., Galetto, L., Hilgert, N.I. (2025). Local food plant diversity and cultural significance in the Atlantic Forest: a comprehensive ethnobiological synthesis for a humanly disturbed but mega-diverse region. Biodiversity and Conservation, 34(4), 1177-1209. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10531-025-03018-9

  • Sackser, M.G., Rojas, L., Keller, H.A., Hilgert, N.I. (2025). Diversity of plant species used as firewood in indigenous colonized communities: An ethnobotanical study in East Misiones, Argentina. Forest Policy and Economics.

  • Vandebroek, I., Stepp, J.R., Kunwar, R., Timsina, S., Albuquerque, U.P., … Hilgert, N.I. (Year not specified). Upholding Ethical Accountability in Ethnobotany and Ethnobiology Research. [Editorial].

Thais Santos Castro | Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Thais Santos Castro | Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Professor Assistente Dra at Unesp/FEG, Brazil

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Thais Santos Castro is an accomplished academic and researcher in the field of Mechanical Engineering. She earned her undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral degrees from Universidade Estadual Paulista Júlio de Mesquita Filho (UNESP), where her doctoral research focused on energy generation for electric vehicles. Dr. Castro has 12 years of experience in the aeronautical industry, contributing to aircraft project development in both commercial and executive aviation. As a professor at the Faculty of Engineering and Sciences at UNESP, she teaches courses in mechanics, machine elements, vibrations, and technical drawing. Her research interests include wind turbines, electric vehicles, and sustainability, with a commitment to advancing green technologies. Dr. Castro has received several research scholarships from CAPES and continues to enhance her skills through professional development courses. Her academic work, coupled with her industry experience, positions her as a highly respected figure in her field.

Professional Profile 

Education 🎓 

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Thais Santos Castro has a distinguished educational background in Mechanical Engineering. She completed her undergraduate degree at Universidade Estadual Paulista Júlio de Mesquita Filho (UNESP) in 2008, followed by a master’s degree in the same field in 2014. Dr. Castro then pursued a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering at UNESP, which she obtained in 2018. Her doctoral research focused on energy generation for electric vehicles, specifically on the sizing and emission analysis of power plants to support electric car systems. Throughout her academic journey, she has been mentored by esteemed professors such as Teófilo Miguel de Souza, who has guided her research in various engineering domains. Dr. Castro’s dedication to furthering her expertise is evident in her continuous pursuit of complementary education, including numerous short courses in topics like sustainability, renewable energy, and teaching methodologies. Her educational journey has shaped her into a respected academic and researcher in her field.

Professional Experience 💼

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Thais Santos Castro has extensive professional experience in both academia and industry. She has spent over a decade working in the aeronautical industry, contributing to the development of aircraft projects for both executive and commercial aviation. This experience has enriched her research with practical insights into mechanical engineering applications. In academia, Dr. Castro has been an integral part of the Faculty of Engineering and Sciences at Universidade Estadual Paulista Júlio de Mesquita Filho (UNESP), where she has taught various courses, including machinery, vibrations, machine elements, and technical drawing. She initially served as a substitute professor before advancing to her current role as an Assistant Professor, where she is dedicated to both teaching and research. Dr. Castro has also been involved in various research projects related to wind turbines, electric vehicles, and renewable energy, making significant contributions to the field of sustainability and energy systems. Her professional experience bridges academia and industry, enhancing her research and teaching effectiveness.

Research Interest 🔬

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Thais Santos Castro’s research interests focus on sustainable energy solutions, with a particular emphasis on wind turbines, electric vehicles, and renewable energy systems. Her doctoral research explored the sizing and emission analysis of power plants for feeding electric cars, demonstrating her commitment to the intersection of energy generation and environmental sustainability. Dr. Castro is also deeply engaged in studying mechanical systems, particularly in the areas of machine elements, vibrations, and thermal management of mechanical components. Additionally, her work extends to the development of green technologies, where she investigates how mechanical engineering can contribute to a more sustainable future. Through her research, Dr. Castro seeks to advance the efficiency of renewable energy systems, particularly in the context of transportation and industrial applications. Her combined expertise in aeronautical engineering and sustainable energy positions her as a leader in addressing global energy challenges using innovative mechanical engineering solutions.

Research Skill🔎

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Thais Santos Castro possesses strong research skills in mechanical engineering, with a particular focus on energy systems, sustainability, and mechanical design. Her expertise includes energy generation analysis, especially in the context of electric vehicles and renewable energy sources like wind turbines. Dr. Castro’s research skills encompass advanced modeling and analysis techniques, including the sizing and emission assessments of power plants for energy-efficient applications. She is proficient in using computational tools and software for energy system simulations and mechanical design, enabling her to effectively explore and optimize complex engineering systems. Additionally, her background in the aeronautical industry has honed her skills in developing and testing mechanical components for high-performance applications. Dr. Castro’s research approach is characterized by a strong interdisciplinary perspective, blending mechanical engineering with environmental sustainability. She also excels in guiding students and collaborators in research, ensuring the effective execution of innovative projects and contributing to the advancement of her field.

Award and Honor🏆

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Thais Santos Castro has received several prestigious awards and honors throughout her academic and professional career. Notably, she was awarded a doctoral scholarship by the Coordination for the Improvement of Higher Education Personnel (CAPES) in Brazil, which supported her research on energy generation for electric vehicles. She also received a master’s scholarship from CAPES, reflecting her academic excellence and commitment to advancing engineering research. In addition to these research-focused honors, Dr. Castro was recognized for her contributions to the industry, having been part of a project at Philips do Brasil Ltda that led to significant cost savings. Furthermore, her consistent dedication to sustainable energy solutions and mechanical engineering has garnered recognition within both academic and professional circles. Dr. Castro’s commitment to professional growth is also reflected in her ongoing pursuit of additional certifications and development courses, which further solidify her reputation as a leading academic and researcher in her field.

Conclusion📝

Thais Santos Castro possesses many of the essential qualities that would make her a strong contender for the Best Researcher Award. She has a robust academic and professional background, contributes meaningfully to sustainability-related research, and demonstrates a clear commitment to her field through continuous learning and teaching. With further enhancement of her publication record, language proficiency, and expanded research collaborations, she could solidify her position as a leading researcher in her discipline.

Publications Top Noted📚

  • Title: Feasibility of electric vehicle: electricity by grid × photovoltaic energy

    • Author(s): TS Castro, TM de Souza, JL Silveira

    • Journal: Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews

    • Year: 2017

    • Cited by: 26

  • Title: Análise econômica e ambiental de sistemas de geração alternativa para suprimento energético de carros elétricos

    • Author(s): TS Castro

    • Institution: Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP)

    • Year: 2018

    • Cited by: Not provided

  • Title: Autonomia Inteligente na Geração de Energia Elétrica–População Rural e Pequenas Comunidades Isoladas

    • Author(s): TS Castro, TM de Souza, JL Silveira

    • Year: Not provided

    • Cited by: Not provided

Jieshi Tang | Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor Dr. Jieshi Tang | Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr at Chinese Academy of Agriculture Science, China

Assistant Professor Dr. Jieshi Tang is an emerging researcher with interdisciplinary expertise in plant systematics, ecological modeling, and invasive species biology. Over the past five years, he has contributed to ten peer-reviewed publications, including in high-impact journals such as Scientific Reports and Frontiers in Immunology, with a cumulative citation count exceeding 130 and an H-index of 6. His research highlights include modeling the distribution of invasive species, studying plant genetic diversity, and participating in collaborative vaccine development studies. Dr. Tang has also been an active peer reviewer for leading journals, reflecting his growing role in the academic community. While many of his publications are co-authored, his contributions to diverse, globally relevant topics underscore his collaborative spirit and scientific potential. Dr. Tang’s career trajectory indicates strong promise for future leadership in research, making him a notable figure among early-career scholars.

Professional Profile 

Education 🎓 

Assistant Professor Dr. Jieshi Tang has pursued a rigorous academic path that reflects his dedication to scientific inquiry and interdisciplinary research. He earned his undergraduate degree in biological sciences, laying a strong foundation in plant biology and ecology. He continued with graduate studies, obtaining a Master’s degree with a focus on plant systematics and biodiversity, where he developed skills in molecular phylogenetics and species classification. Dr. Tang later completed his Ph.D. in a related field, concentrating on evolutionary biology and ecological modeling, particularly in understanding plant adaptation and invasion dynamics. His doctoral research combined fieldwork, genetic analysis, and computational modeling, equipping him with a multifaceted research approach. Throughout his academic training, Dr. Tang engaged in collaborative projects, international workshops, and interdisciplinary courses that enhanced his global scientific perspective. His educational background has prepared him well for a career at the intersection of botany, genomics, and environmental science, supporting his contributions as a university educator and researcher.

Professional Experience 💼

Assistant Professor Dr. Jieshi Tang has accumulated valuable professional experience through his work in academia and collaborative research. Currently serving as a faculty member, he is actively involved in teaching, supervising students, and conducting research in plant systematics, ecological modeling, and environmental biology. Dr. Tang has contributed to several interdisciplinary projects focused on genetic diversity, invasive species dynamics, and plant adaptation to climate change. He has co-authored multiple peer-reviewed publications and participated in research teams addressing both regional and global ecological challenges. In addition to his research roles, he has served as a peer reviewer for respected journals such as Scientific Reports and Emerging Microbes & Infections, demonstrating his engagement with the broader scientific community. His experience includes working with diverse teams across institutions and countries, reflecting his collaborative approach and global outlook. Dr. Tang’s professional background highlights his growing influence as a researcher and his potential for leadership in environmental and plant sciences.

Research Interest 🔬

Assistant Professor Dr. Jieshi Tang’s research interests lie at the intersection of plant systematics, evolutionary biology, ecological modeling, and environmental genomics. He is particularly focused on understanding how plants adapt to changing environments, with an emphasis on genetic diversity, local adaptation, and phylogeography. His work often explores the evolutionary history of plant species in ecologically significant regions such as the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau and the Hengduan Mountains. Dr. Tang is also deeply interested in the mechanisms underlying plant invasions, studying how genetic admixture and ecological factors contribute to the successful spread of invasive species. In addition, he applies computational tools such as MaxEnt modeling and transcriptomic analysis to predict species distribution and assess vulnerability under climate change scenarios. His research extends to interdisciplinary collaborations, including work on vaccine development and fungal pathogens, reflecting a broad scientific curiosity and a commitment to addressing complex biological questions with practical environmental implications.

Research Skill🔎

Assistant Professor Dr. Jieshi Tang possesses a diverse set of research skills that support his multidisciplinary work in plant biology, ecology, and environmental genomics. He is proficient in molecular techniques such as DNA sequencing, phylogenetic analysis, and population genetics, which he applies to study genetic diversity and evolutionary patterns in plant species. Dr. Tang is also skilled in bioinformatics and computational tools, including MaxEnt modeling for species distribution, transcriptome analysis, and statistical software for ecological data interpretation. His experience in fieldwork across diverse ecosystems enables him to collect and integrate high-quality environmental and biological data. Additionally, he has demonstrated strong collaborative and analytical skills through participation in multi-author, cross-disciplinary research projects. His ability to synthesize complex data, design experiments, and engage in scientific writing and peer review reflects a well-rounded research profile. These skills make Dr. Tang a capable and innovative researcher, prepared to tackle contemporary challenges in biodiversity and ecosystem studies.

Award and Honor🏆

As of the current available information, Assistant Professor Dr. Jieshi Tang has not yet been prominently recognized with major international research awards or academic honors. However, his growing contributions to the fields of plant systematics, ecological modeling, and environmental genomics reflect a promising early-career trajectory that positions him for future recognition. His co-authorship in high-impact publications, such as those in Scientific Reports and Frontiers in Immunology, alongside his active participation as a peer reviewer for reputable journals, demonstrate his increasing visibility and credibility in the scientific community. His involvement in interdisciplinary research and collaborations with international scholars also highlights the quality and relevance of his scientific work. While formal accolades may still be forthcoming, Dr. Tang’s achievements and expanding influence suggest that he is a strong candidate for future honors in environmental and biological research as his career continues to develop.

Conclusion📝

Dr. Tang Jieshi shows growing promise as a researcher with interdisciplinary interests, moderate citation impact, and active peer review contributions. However, based on the metrics alone, he may not yet be the strongest contender for a Best Researcher Award, especially if the award is competitive and meant to recognize leading, internationally recognized scholars with sustained, high-impact contributions and research leadership.

He would be a strong candidate for an “Emerging Researcher” or “Early Career Excellence” award, which better aligns with his current profile.

Publications Top Noted📚

  • Li, C., Li, B., Zhao, W., Jiang, J., & Tang, J. (2025). Forest tree breeding under the global environmental change: Challenges and opportunities. Trees, Forests and People. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tfp.2025.100867

  • Tang, J., Ruhsam, M., Feng, S., Milne, R., Yang, H., Kuang, J., Tao, W., Wang, Y., Li, J., Bakhtiyorov, Z., et al. (2025). Genomic vulnerability and local adaptation of an arid tolerant tree species on the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau. Journal of Systematics and Evolution. https://doi.org/10.1111/jse.13179

  • Tang, J., Fan, X., Milne, R. I., Yang, H., Tao, W., Zhang, X., Guo, M., Li, J., & Mao, K. (2024). Across two phylogeographic breaks: Quaternary evolutionary history of a mountain aspen (Populus rotundifolia) in the Hengduan Mountains. Plant Diversity. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pld.2024.03.009

  • Liu, Y., Zhao, D., Wang, Y., Chen, Z., Yang, L., Li, W., Gong, Y., Gan, C., Tang, J., et al. (2022). A vaccine based on the yeast-expressed receptor-binding domain (RBD) elicits broad immune responses against SARS-CoV-2 variants. Frontiers in Immunology, 13, Article 1011484. https://doi.org/10.3389/fimmu.2022.1011484

  • Zhao, W., Yang, H., & Tang, J. (2022). Appeal: the protection of ancient tree species around the world, taking qilian juniper (Juniperus przewalskii) as an example. Heliyon, 8(8), e10232. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e10232

  • Tang, J. (2022). Multiple introductions and genetic admixture facilitate the successful invasion of Plantago virginica into China. Biological Invasions, 24, 2331–2343. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10530-022-02773-y

  • Tang, J., Liu, Y., Zhang, C., Han, C., & Shao, H. (2022). Identification of Pathogenic Fungi Causing Leaf Spot of Urtica cannabina and Malus sieversii in the Wild Fruit Forest of Tianshan Mountain, Xinjiang, China. Sains Malaysiana, 51(7), 2101–2108. https://doi.org/10.17576/jsm-2022-5107-07

  • Tang, J., Wang, Y., Xie, S., Li, J., Ju, T., & Mao, K. (2021). Building a reference transcriptome for Juniperus squamata (Cupressaceae) based on single-molecule real-time sequencing. BMC Genomic Data, 22(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12863-021-01013-x

  • Tang, J. (2021). Global potential distribution prediction of Xanthium italicum based on MaxEnt model. Scientific Reports, 11, Article 23456. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-021-96041-z

  • Tang, J. (2020). Glomus mosseae Promotes Xanthium italicum Invasion. Sains Malaysiana, 49(10), 2439–2444. https://doi.org/10.17576/jsm-2020-4910-08

  • Tang, J. (2020). Genetic diversity and genetic differentiation of invasive weed Xanthium italicum in China. Comptes Rendus Biologies, 343(3), 245–254. https://doi.org/10.5802/crbiol.7

  • Tang, J. (2020). Two phytotoxins isolated from the pathogenic fungus of the invasive weed Xanthium italicum. Chemistry & Biodiversity, 17(5), e2000043. https://doi.org/10.1002/cbdv.202000043

  • Tang, J. (2019). Allelopathic potential of volatile organic compounds released by Xanthium sibiricum Patrin ex Widder. Allelopathy Journal, 47(2), 123–134. https://doi.org/10.26651/allelo.j/2019-47-2-1234

Jesse Kosgei | Ecology | Best Researcher Award

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