Ruben Dario Palacio, PhD

Conservation Biologist & Biodiversity Advisor

About me

I’m a conservation biologist (PhD, Duke University) working on the gap between biodiversity knowledge and decision-making.Through research, consulting, and advisory work, I help strengthen the link between scientific evidence and conservation outcomes.I publish independent analysis and briefings through my public platform, Biodiversity Affairs.

What I Do

I'm an advisor on biodiversity science, strategy, and decision-making.I also lead on-the-ground conservation work in Colombia through my nonprofit, Fundación Ecotonos.I support public, private, and nonprofit organizations with biodiversity assessments, conservation planning, evidence synthesis, decision support, and science-to-policy translation.

Work With Me

Interested in collaborating or requesting consulting and advisory support?Email me with a brief description of your project, what you need help with, and any deadlines or constraints.

Professional Summary

  • 10+ years of experience in biodiversity research, conservation practice, and decision support.

  • Author of 15+ peer-reviewed publications in leading journals (eg. Conservation Biology, Ecography, PNAS).

  • Founder and Scientific Director, Fundación Ecotonos — advancing research and conservation in the tropical Andes of Colombia.

  • Founder and Editor Biodiversity Affairs — Providing independent analysis on biodiversity strategy, policy, and decision-making.

Areas of Work

  • Species conservation and action plans.

  • Protected area establishment and management.

  • Ecological surveys and data collection.

  • Environmental governance and public policy.

  • Restoration strategy and monitoring

  • Landscape planning and connectivity

  • Impact assessment and risk analysis.

© Ruben Dario Palacio 2026