Postdoctoral researcher at Mediterranean Institute for Advanced Studies, Spain
Sandra Hervías-Parejo is a passionate ecologist dedicated to addressing global ecological challenges such as biodiversity loss, climate change, and invasive species. Sandra has led impactful research that influences conservation policies, especially for island ecosystems. With 40 publications in SCI-indexed journals, Sandra ensures her work reaches a broad audience by prioritizing open access for transparency and reproducibility. Her career reflects a commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration across over 20 countries, and her research projects have received both national and international funding. Beyond research, Sandra actively engages in science outreach, mentoring future ecologists, and promoting gender equity. She frequently participates in international conferences and committees, reviews scientific articles, and contributes to public awareness through media and educational initiatives. Sandra’s dedication bridges the gap between scientific innovation and societal impact, making her a prominent figure in the field of ecology.
Publication profile
Orcid
Scopus
Academic Background
Sandra Hervías-Parejo’s academic journey showcases her strong foundation in ecology and conservation. She earned a PhD in Ecology from the University of Murcia, Spain, where she delved into the intricate dynamics of ecosystems. Preceding this, Sandra completed an MSc in Invasive Species Management in 2014, also at the University of Murcia, gaining specialized expertise in tackling one of the most pressing ecological challenges. Her academic repertoire includes a Certificate in Teaching Skills obtained in 2009 from the University of Granada, underscoring her commitment to education and mentorship. Sandra’s academic career began with a Degree in Biology in 2006, completed through a collaboration between the University of Granada and the University of La Laguna in Tenerife. This diverse educational background equipped Sandra with the knowledge and skills to lead interdisciplinary research and foster innovation in biodiversity conservation and ecological restoration.
Professional Background
Sandra Hervías-Parejo brings extensive experience to her work as a researcher. Currently a postdoc at the CSIC Global Change Research IMEDEA in Spain, she works under the prestigious ERC Advanced Grant led by A. Traveset. Previously, she held the Vicenç Mut Postdoctoral Fellowship at IMEDEA, where her work contributed significantly to understanding global ecological changes. Her international experience includes a postdoctoral position at the Charles Darwin Research Station in the Galápagos, focusing on conserving island ecosystems. Sandra has led two research projects and contributed to 14 international initiatives, emphasizing collaborative research with over 20 countries. Her roles include mentoring students, reviewing for 22 scientific journals, and participating in committees to advance research standards. Sandra also actively engages in science communication and policy-making, amplifying the practical impact of her ecological research across multiple spheres.
Awards and Honors
Sandra Hervías-Parejo’s contributions to ecology have earned her international recognition. She has been the principal investigator of two prestigious projects and a key collaborator in numerous national and international initiatives. Sandra’s research has been lauded for its quality, impact, and interdisciplinary approach. She frequently represents her work at international conferences, including invited talks at renowned institutions such as the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre and the Sorbonne. Her leadership in conservation and biodiversity has not only influenced policies but also inspired educational and public outreach programs. Sandra’s dedication to advancing ecological understanding is further evident through her role in organizing academic events and her active membership in global biodiversity groups. Her accolades highlight her exceptional contributions to ecology, both in academic research and practical conservation efforts, making her a role model in the scientific community.
Research Focus
Sandra Hervías-Parejo focuses on unraveling the complexities of ecosystem dynamics to address global ecological challenges. Her research spans biodiversity conservation, ecosystem restoration, and the impacts of invasive alien species, with a special emphasis on island ecosystems. Sandra uses multilayer network approaches to study food webs, keystone species, and functional traits, advancing our understanding of ecosystem resilience under global change. Her work also investigates the ecological and evolutionary consequences of island tameness, integrating artificial intelligence for innovative ecological modeling. Sandra’s research has practical applications, influencing conservation policies and fostering collaborations with local authorities to implement sustainable solutions. Her projects prioritize open-access publishing, ensuring transparency and reproducibility, and her interdisciplinary approach bridges theory, fieldwork, and predictive modeling. Through her pioneering efforts, Sandra contributes to developing sustainable strategies for conserving biodiversity in fragile ecosystems.
Publication Top Notes
“Disentangling Small Island Ecological Multilayer Networks: Relationships with Ecological and Evolutionary Island Patterns” 🌍
Authors: Manuel Nogales, Anna Traveset, Heriberto López, Ruben H. Heleno, Susana Rodríguez‐Echeverría, Rafael García, S. Hervías-Parejo
Year: 2025
“Mixed Mating System and Intraspecific Variation in Lizard Pollination of Withania frutescens (L.) Pauquy” 🦎
Authors: Raquel Muñoz-Gallego, Anna Traveset, S. Hervías-Parejo, Rafel Beltrán
Year: 2025
“Disentangling Small‐Island Multilayer Networks: Underlying Ecological and Evolutionary Patterns” 🌐
Authors: Manuel Nogales, Anna Traveset, Heriberto López, Ruben Heleno, Susana Rodríguez‐Echeverría, Rafael García, Sandra Hervías‐Parejo
Year: 2025
“<scp>EuPPollNet</scp>: A European Database of Plant‐Pollinator Networks” 🌺
Authors: Jose B. Lanuza, Tiffany M. Knight, Nerea Montes‐Perez, Will Glenny, Paola Acuña, Matthias Albrecht, Maddi Artamendi, Isabelle Badenhausser, Joanne M. Bennett, Paolo Biella, S. Hervías-Parejo, et al.
Year: 2025
Conclusion
Sandra Hervías-Parejo is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her contributions to ecological science and conservation are noteworthy, with significant impacts in academia, policy, and public engagement. Her strengths in leadership, interdisciplinary collaboration, and mentorship make her a well-rounded researcher. Addressing the outlined areas for improvement could further enhance her already impressive profile, positioning her as a leading figure in global ecological research.