Juan Pablo Seco Pon| Biodiversity and conservation | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Juan Pablo Seco Pon| Biodiversity and conservation | Best Researcher Award

Investigador Independiente CONICET at CONICET, Argentina, Argentina 

Dr. Juan Pablo Seco Pon is an Argentine marine biologist and independent researcher at CONICET, dedicated to the conservation of seabirds and marine ecosystems. Based in Mar del Plata, Argentina, he holds a PhD in Biological Sciences and has been at the forefront of research and policy advising in marine biodiversity for nearly two decades. He actively contributes to both national and international scientific bodies, including the FAO and the Agreement on the Conservation of Albatrosses and Petrels. Through his leadership in major interdisciplinary projects, he has developed socio-ecological tools and conservation strategies to reduce incidental seabird mortality in fisheries. A prolific researcher and principal investigator in numerous initiatives, he has shaped environmental management practices and contributed to marine conservation policy in Argentina and beyond. Dr. Seco Pon is also a passionate advocate for sustainable development and ecosystem-based management. 🌊🪶📚🌍

Professional Profiles📖

Scopus 

ORCID 

🎓 Education 

Dr. Seco Pon completed both his undergraduate and doctoral education at the Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata in Argentina. In 2006, he earned his Licenciatura en Ciencias Biológicas, laying the groundwork for his specialization in marine and coastal ecosystems. He advanced his studies with a Doctorate in Biological Sciences in 2014 from the same institution, with a research focus on seabird ecology, conservation strategies, and human-wildlife interactions. His academic path reflects a clear dedication to environmental science, particularly the sustainable management of marine biodiversity. His education provided him with a robust interdisciplinary foundation in ecology, conservation biology, and field research methods. His doctoral training also included work with top-tier research groups and interaction with governmental and international environmental organizations. 🎓📘🧬🌱

🏗 Experience 

Dr. Seco Pon has held key research roles across Argentina’s top scientific institutions. He currently serves as an Independent Researcher at CONICET, working within the Ecología y Conservación de Aves Marinas y Costeras group. His earlier experience includes a research role at the Centro de Investigaciones Puerto Deseado (UNPA). Internationally recognized, he was Vice-Coordinator for the Working Group on Seabird Bycatch under the Agreement on the Conservation of Albatrosses and Petrels (ACAP) between 2017 and 2023. Nationally, he has served on multiple advisory panels for seabird conservation under Argentina’s Ministry of Science and Consejo Federal Pesquero. His management and advisory contributions reflect an extensive commitment to integrating science into policy. 🌐🧪🔬🌊

🏆 Awards & Honors 

Dr. Juan Pablo Seco Pon has received notable recognition through his appointments and leadership roles rather than formal individual awards. He has been consistently entrusted with the position of Principal Investigator on high-impact national and international research projects from 2022 to 2025, reflecting his expertise and scientific leadership. His selection as Vice-Coordinator of the Seabird Bycatch Working Group under the Agreement on the Conservation of Albatrosses and Petrels (ACAP) showcases his international standing and influence in global conservation efforts. He has also led and co-directed major conservation programs supported by Argentina’s Ministry of Science, the Pampa Azul initiative, and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). These roles highlight a strong record of peer recognition, institutional trust, and impactful scientific contributions, cementing his reputation as a key figure in seabird and marine ecosystem conservation. 🏅🌎📑

🔬 Research Focus

Dr. Seco Pon’s research centers on the ecology and conservation of marine and coastal birds, with a major focus on minimizing incidental mortality caused by fisheries. His interdisciplinary approach combines field ecology, policy-oriented science, and socio-ecological modeling to design effective conservation strategies. He investigates seabirds as biomonitors of environmental health, develops mitigation tools for more sustainable fishing practices, and explores human-wildlife conflict to support better compliance with environmental regulations. His work is highly applied, contributing directly to public policy, biodiversity conservation, and the long-term sustainability of marine ecosystems in Argentina. Through his projects, Dr. Seco Pon has played a key role in translating science into actionable environmental management, influencing both national and international conservation practices. 🌐🪶⚖️🐟

🛠 Skills 

Dr. Seco Pon possesses a versatile and impactful skill set that bridges science, management, and policy. He is highly experienced in field research and ecological monitoring, particularly in seabird biology and marine wildlife assessment. As a seasoned project leader, he oversees complex, multi-institutional research initiatives and technical evaluations. His proficiency in data analysis and socio-ecological modeling enables him to assess human impacts on marine species and ecosystems effectively. He plays a prominent advisory role in national fisheries and biodiversity programs and has secured and managed substantial research funding from FAO, CONICET, and other major science agencies. His capacity for international collaboration is evident in his work with organizations such as ACAP and FAO, while his science communication skills ensure that his research influences both policymakers and the public. Overall, his expertise supports the implementation of real-world solutions in marine conservation. 🧩📊🧭🤝

Publications Top Notes

  1. Incidental Mortality of Black‐Browed Albatross and White‐Chinned Petrel in Argentine Longline Fisheries: A Comprehensive Estimation Addressing Spatial and Temporal Stratification and Cryptic Mortality

    • Year: 2025 (April)

    • Source: Aquatic Conservation: Marine and Freshwater Ecosystems

    • DOI: 10.1002/aqc.70127

  2. Floating marine debris in two pelagic ecosystems of the southwestern Atlantic off Argentina

    • Year: 2024 (March 8)

    • Source: Marine and Fishery Sciences (MAFIS)

    • DOI: 10.47193/mafis.3742024010704

  3. Risk-taking behavior by a cavity-nesting parrot breeding at northern Patagonia, Argentina

    • Year: 2024 (March 2)

    • Source: Ecología Austral

    • DOI: 10.25260/EA.24.34.1.0.2233

  4. Effect of environmental variability on seabird assemblages across the Brazil–Malvinas Confluence during the austral winter

    • Year: 2024 (February)

    • Source: Marine Biology

    • DOI: 10.1007/s00227-023-04371-5

  5. Is there a symbiotic cleaning association between ocean sunfish and pelagic seabirds in the Patagonian Shelf?

    • Year: 2023 (July)

    • Source: Symbiosis

    • DOI: 10.1007/s13199-023-00933-9

  6. Where are you from? Isotopic tracing of juvenile Olrog’s Gulls from Mar Chiquita during the wintering season

    • Year: 2023 (April 3)

    • Source: Emu – Austral Ornithology

    • DOI: 10.1080/01584197.2023.2186895

  7. Conservation approach in a coastal reserve in Argentina to promote the responsible disposal of litter derived from recreational fisheries

    • Year: 2021 (November)

    • Source: Ocean & Coastal Management

    • DOI: 10.1016/j.ocecoaman.2021.105899

  8. First evidence of anthropogenic debris in nests of the Kelp Gull (Larus dominicanus) from a small semi-desert Argentinean coastal ecosystem

    • Year: 2021 (September)

    • Source: Marine Pollution Bulletin

    • DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2021.112650

  9. Is there sexual segregation in habitat selection by Black-browed Albatrosses wintering in the south-west Atlantic?

    • Year: 2021 (July 3)

    • Source: Emu – Austral Ornithology

    • DOI: 10.1080/01584197.2020.1869910

  10. Chlorpyrifos and persistent organic pollutants in feathers of the near threatened Olrog’s Gull in southeastern Buenos Aires Province, Argentina

    • Year: 2021 (March)

    • Source: Environmental Pollution

    • DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2020.115918

 

Conclusion✅

Saleh Mahmoudi | Biodiversity and Conservation | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Zoology Honour

Dr. Saleh Mahmoudi | Biodiversity and Conservation | Best Researcher Award

Researcher at Kurdistan Agricultural and Natural Resources Research and Education Center, AREEO. Iran

Saleh Mahmoudi was born on March 8, 1986, in Iraq. He currently resides in Kamyaran, Kurdistan Province, Iran, with his family. As a dedicated environmental scientist, he specializes in biodiversity, habitat modeling, and conservation ecology. He is affiliated with the Soil Conservation and Watershed Management Research Department at the Agricultural and Natural Resources Research and Education Center (AREEO) in Sanandaj, Iran. His work primarily focuses on the ecological and environmental challenges affecting riverine ecosystems and wildlife conservation. With a strong background in research and fieldwork, he has made significant contributions to environmental science, particularly in habitat modeling and conservation strategies for aquatic and terrestrial species. In addition to his academic and professional endeavors, he is actively involved in environmental NGOs and volunteer initiatives, striving to enhance public awareness of conservation issues. Mahmoudi is recognized for his commitment to sustainability and his leadership in environmental protection efforts.

Professional Profiles📖

Google Scholar 

Education 🎓

Saleh Mahmoudi earned his Ph.D. in Environmental Science (Biodiversity) from Shahid Beheshti University (2017-2023), where he focused on modeling the habitat requirements of riverine fish species. Under the supervision of Dr. Asghar Abdoli, his research contributed to a better understanding of aquatic ecosystems and conservation strategies for freshwater fish. He previously completed his M.Sc. in Environmental Science at Gorgan University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources (2010-2012). His thesis, supervised by Dr. Hossein Varasteh Moradi, explored the application of genetic rescue in wildlife conservation, highlighting the importance of genetic diversity in preserving endangered species,For his B.Sc. in Environmental Science at Hakim Sabzevari University & University of Environment (2006-2010), Mahmoudi worked on a project titled “Certificate of Natural Appearance of Kermanshah Province” under the guidance of Dr. Abbas Pahlavani. This early research laid the foundation for his future work in environmental conservation and ecological studies.

Work Experience💼

Saleh Mahmoudi has extensive research experience in environmental science and biodiversity conservation. He served as a Research Assistant at Shahid Beheshti University (2021-2023), contributing to advanced ecological studies. In 2019, he investigated the water requirements of the Jajroud River in Tehran, providing valuable insights for sustainable water resource management. His work in wildlife conservation includes identifying suitable patches for Iranian squirrel conservation in Kermanshah (2015), aiding in habitat protection efforts. In 2012, he conducted a comprehensive analysis of Felidae distribution in Kermanshah Province, contributing to the understanding of wild cat populations and their ecological needs. Additionally, Mahmoudi’s early research focused on bird distribution in Sa’dabad Forest, Gorgan (2011), where he examined avian abundance patterns and habitat preferences. His collective research experience reflects a strong commitment to environmental sustainability, species conservation, and ecological modeling.

Awards and Honors 🏆

Saleh Mahmoudi has been widely recognized for his contributions to environmental science and conservation. He was honored with the Iran National Elites Foundation Award, a prestigious recognition for his outstanding research and impact in the field. In 2010, he was acknowledged at the first NGOs and Student Associations Success Festival for his leadership and dedication to environmental advocacy. As a founder and scientific member of the Salas Community of Environment Protectors (NGO), Mahmoudi has played a crucial role in raising awareness and implementing conservation initiatives. Since 2017, he has served as a juror for the Environmental Sciences Journal, evaluating scientific research and contributing to academic excellence. Beyond his research and academic contributions, Mahmoudi is deeply involved in environmental conservation projects, working on habitat protection, biodiversity preservation, and ecological sustainability, reinforcing his commitment to protecting nature and wildlife.

Skills💡

Saleh Mahmoudi possesses a diverse set of technical skills in environmental science, research, and data analysis. He is proficient in statistical and ecological analysis tools such as R, SPSS, Canoco, Distance, and Ecological Methodology, allowing him to conduct complex biodiversity and ecological modeling studies. His expertise in GIS and remote sensing includes ArcGIS, MaxEnt, and ImageJ, which he utilizes for habitat mapping and environmental assessments. Additionally, he is skilled in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) for documentation and reporting. Mahmoudi is a multilingual researcher, with Kurdish as his native language, fluency in Farsi, upper-intermediate proficiency in English, and basic knowledge of Arabic. He is known for his strong leadership and teamwork abilities, excelling in collaborative and research-driven environments. His high motivation, problem-solving mindset, and independent work ethic make him a dedicated scientist committed to environmental conservation and sustainability.

Research Focus 🔬

Saleh Mahmoudi’s research emphasizes biodiversity conservation, ecological modeling, and environmental management. His Ph.D. work involved habitat modeling for riverine fish species, with a focus on spatial and environmental factors affecting aquatic ecosystems. He has also contributed significantly to forest ecology, species distribution modeling, and human-wildlife interactions. His projects range from identifying critical habitats for endangered species to assessing ecological threats in protected areas. Additionally, he works on conservation strategies by integrating GIS, remote sensing, and ecological modeling for effective environmental decision-making. His work has practical implications for policy-making, environmental sustainability, and climate change adaptation strategies.

Conclusion✅

Saleh Mahmoudi is a highly accomplished researcher with a strong academic and practical background in environmental science and conservation. His dedication to biodiversity, habitat modeling, and community involvement makes him a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. While he already demonstrates significant contributions, further international collaborations, funding leadership, and policy involvement would further enhance his research impact.

Publications Top Notes📚

Effect of human-induced forest edges on the understory bird community in Hyrcanian forests in Iran: Implication for conservation and management

📖 Forest Ecology and Management, Vol. 382, pp. 120-128

👥 Authors: S. Mahmoudi, S.S. Ilanloo, A.K. Shahrestanaki, N. Valizadegan, M. Yousefi

📅 Year: 2016

🔢 Citations: 26

2️⃣ Suitable forest habitats for protection of Iranian squirrel (Sciurus anomalus Pallescens) in west Kermanshah province

📖 Journal of Animal Environment, Vol. 8(2), pp. 33-40

👥 Authors: S. Moradi, S. Mahmoudi, I.S. Sheykhi

📅 Year: 2016

🔢 Citations: 6

3️⃣ Economic-recreational valuation of Koohestan forest park of Kermanshah using Zonal Travel Cost Method (ZTCM)

📖 Human & Environment, Vol. 20(160002267), pp. 257-271

👥 Authors: S. Moradi, S. Mahmoudi

📅 Year: 2022

🔢 Citations: 1

4️⃣ Modelling habitat requirements of Alburnus atropatena in the Jajroud protected River

📖 Environmental Sciences, Vol. 21(2), pp. 81-94

👥 Authors: S. Mahmoudi, A. Abdoli

📅 Year: 2023

5️⃣ Longitudinal zonation of the river based on the presence of fish species (Case study: Jajroud River)

📖 Journal of Aquatic Ecology, Vol. 13(1), pp. 73-82

👥 Authors: S. Mahmoudi, A. Abdoli

📅 Year: 2023

6️⃣ Effect of human-induced forest edges on the bird community in Hyrcanian forests in Iran: Implication for conservation and management

📖 New Methods and Research Results on Landscapes in Europe and Central Asia

👥 Authors: S. Mahmoudi, S.S. Ilanloo, A.K. Shahrestanaki, N. Valizadegan, M. Yousefi

📅 Year: 2018

7️⃣ Conservation of bird communities in elevational gradients in Hyrcanian forest

📖 Zist Sepehr Student Magazine, Vol. 12(1), pp. 27-38

👥 Authors: S. Mahmoudi, A. Keyvanloo Shahrestanaki

📅 Year: 2017

8️⃣ DNA barcoding methods for determination of vertebrate diet, challenges, and constraints

📖 Zist Sepehr Student Magazine, Vol. 11(1), pp. 36-42

👥 Authors: S. Sheykhi Ilanloo, H. Rezaie, S. Mahmoudi

📅 Year: 2016

➡️ “A comparative analysis of univariate and multivariate spatial requirements modelling for habitat selection in freshwater fish: A case study of Oxynoemachilus bergianus in the Jajroud River, Iran, and implications for conservation and management”
➡️ Journal: Ecological Modelling
➡️ Publication Date: May 2025

Jamal Ayour | Biodiversity and Conservation | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Zoology Honour

Prof. Jamal Ayour | Biodiversity and conservation | Best Researcher Award

Prof at Agadir Superior School of Technology, Morocco

M. Jamal Ayour is an expert in food science and technology with a focus on nutrition, biotechnology, and agricultural sciences. He holds dual PhDs from INRAE and the University of Marrakech, Morocco, and has extensive professional experience in both academia and research. He currently serves as a Research Professor at the Superior School of Technology, Ibn Zohr University, Agadir, Morocco. Ayour has been involved in numerous international research projects, particularly in the fields of food technology and genetic selection of agricultural products. He has authored multiple influential publications and has a significant impact on the global food science community. His expertise includes formulating food products, supplements, and antioxidants, as well as applying biotechnology to improve food quality and nutritional value.

Professional Profiles📖

Scopus

Education 🎓

M. Jamal Ayour earned his PhD in Agricultural Sciences from INRAE – Avignon University, France (2019), and his PhD in Biotechnology and Food Science from the University of Marrakech, Morocco (2018). He also holds a Master’s degree in Food Technology (2012) and a Bachelor’s degree in Quality Control of Agri-food Products (2010), both from the University of Marrakech. His academic training in these disciplines provided a robust foundation in the scientific study of food quality, biotechnology, and agricultural sciences, which has greatly contributed to his successful career as a researcher and educator.

Work Experience💼

M. Jamal Ayour has gained diverse experience in both industry and academia. He worked as an Engineer in Biochemistry & Biotechnology at the Reformation Center of Agricultural and Agrifood, Paris, France. Additionally, Ayour was a Professor of Dietetics and Nutrition at College de Paris – Keyce Academy. His role as an International Research Project Manager at INRAE involved leading cutting-edge research on genetic selection and industrial processing of fleshy fruits. Ayour’s academic journey includes his current position as a Research Professor at the Superior School of Technology, Ibn Zohr University, Agadir, Morocco, where he focuses on food science, biotechnology, and agricultural research.

Awards and Honors 🏆

M. Jamal Ayour has received several accolades throughout his career in recognition of his research excellence and contributions to food science and technology. His expertise in formulating food products and researching nutritional and biochemical criteria of agricultural products has garnered him recognition within both the academic and professional spheres. Ayour’s work on apricot genetic selection and his involvement in international research projects have been influential in advancing food biotechnology. His ongoing contributions to the field are acknowledged through various honors and research collaborations across Europe and Africa.

Skills 💡

M. Jamal Ayour is proficient in various research and analytical techniques. He has expertise in formulating food products, supplements, antioxidants, and cosmetic products. He is well-versed in statistical software such as R, XLSTAT, SPSS, and MATLAB, which he uses for data analysis in food technology research. Ayour is also skilled in bioinformatics, including using software like Libmol, GenALEx, and MEGA6 for genomic studies. Additionally, he is proficient in teaching and using digital tools, including Moodle and Genially, to enhance learning experiences. His technical expertise is complemented by certifications in food quality control, metrology, and project management.

Research Focus 🔬

M. Jamal Ayour’s research primarily focuses on food science, biotechnology, and agricultural technology. His work includes studying the nutritional, technological, and biochemical properties of fruits, particularly apricots, and their potential for industrial processing. He is involved in genetic selection to improve fruit quality and in the development of innovative food formulations, including supplements and antioxidants. Ayour’s research also explores the enzymatic activity control in fruit ripening, contributing significantly to the food industry’s understanding of processing and storage techniques. His projects aim to bridge the gap between food science research and practical applications.

Conclusion✅

M. Jamal Ayour is an outstanding candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His expertise in food science, agricultural biotechnology, and nutrition research, combined with his academic contributions and international collaboration, makes him an exemplary figure in his field. His innovative work in food technology and genetic research has not only advanced scientific knowledge but also has practical applications in the food industry. By enhancing public engagement and broadening the scope of his research to include sustainability and digital innovation, he could further solidify his position as a leading researcher globally.

Publications Top Notes📚

Genetic diversity assessment towards core collection construction of Moroccan apricot (Prunus armeniaca L.) germplasm using genomic SSR markers
South African Journal of Botany (2025)
DOI: 10.1016/j.sajb.2025.02.038

Valorizing Coffee Grounds: Bioactive Compounds and Innovative Technologies for Industrial By-Product Utilization
Conference Paper (2024)
DOI: 10.3390/ICC2024-18167

Cell Wall Enzymatic Activity Control: A Reliable Technique in the Fruit Ripening Process
Food Science and Nutrition (2024)
DOI: 10.5772/intechopen.113752

Date seeds (Phoenix Dactylifera L.) valorization: chemical composition of lipid fraction
Brazilian Journal of Biology (2024)
DOI: 10.1590/1519-6984.260771

Evolution of pigments and their relationship with skin color and sensory profile in date fruits (Phoenix dactylifera L.)
Brazilian Journal of Biology (2024)
DOI: 10.1590/1519-6984.252426

Inhibitive Properties of Date Seed Extracts (Phoenix Dactylifera L.) on Mild Steel Corrosion in 1M HCl Solution: Experimental and DFT Studies
Biointerface Research in Applied Chemistry (2023)
DOI: 10.33263/BRIAC135.427

Assessment of Phenotypic Diversity of Some Local Moroccan Date Palm Varieties and Clones (Phoenix Dactylifera L.) from the Zagora Region, Southern Morocco
Jordan Journal of Biological Sciences (2022)
DOI: 10.54319/jjbs/150416

Evaluation of some nutritional quality criteria of seventeen Moroccan dates varieties and clones, fruits of date palm (Phoenix dactylifera l.)
Brazilian Journal of Biology (2022)
DOI: 10.1590/1519-6984.236471

Phenolic profiling in ten apricot clones using an efficient method (Thioacidolysis-UFLC) and determination of their antioxidant potential
Food Bioscience (2022)
DOI: 10.1016/j.fbio.2022.101880

Assessment of Nutritional, Technological, and Commercial Apricot Quality Criteria of the Moroccan Cultivar “Maoui” Compared to Introduced Spanish Cultivars “Canino” and “Delpatriarca” towards Suitable Valorization
Journal of Food Quality (2021)
DOI: 10.1155/2021/6679128

Changes in cell wall neutral sugar composition related to pectinolytic enzyme activities and intra-flesh textural property during ripening of ten apricot clones
Food Chemistry (2021)
DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2020.128096

Relationships between Biochemical Criteria, Volatile Compounds, and Sensory Profiles of Ten Apricot Clones at Commercial and Consumption Ripening Stages
Journal of Food Quality (2020)
DOI: 10.1155/2020/8873835

Bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity of seventeen Moroccan date varieties and clones (Phoenix dactylifera L.)
South African Journal of Botany (2019)
DOI: 10.1016/j.sajb.2018.12.004

Contribution to the study of genetic diversity and searching for physicochemical and biochemical parameters as indicators of quality during the maturation of fresh apricot fruits and after processing
Avignon University (2018)

Postharvest technologies for shelf life enhancement of temperate fruits
Postharvest Biology and Technology of Temperate Fruits (2018)
DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-75163-4_4

Evolution of some fruit quality criteria during ripening of twelve new Moroccan apricot clones (Prunus armeniaca L.)
Scientia Horticulturae (2017)
DOI: 10.1016/j.scienta.2016.12.010

Impact of cooking on apricot texture as a function of cultivar and maturity
LWT (2017)
DOI: 10.1016/j.lwt.2016.10.040

Evolution of pigments and their relationship with skin color based on ripening in fruits of different Moroccan genotypes of apricots (Prunus armeniaca L.)
Scientia Horticulturae (2016)
DOI: 10.1016/j.scienta.2016.05.027