Ruben Dario Palacio, PhD

Independent scientific advisor on biodiversity and conservation

About me

I’m a biodiversity scientist and conservation biologist from Cali, Colombia.I apply ecological knowledge, scientific judgment, and critical thinking to biodiversity claims, conservation plans, and proposed investments.In my advisory work, I am guided by a single overarching question:
How can we make biodiversity conservation decisions more rigorous, transparent, and scientifically defensible?This question is addressed publicly through my platform, Biodiversity Affairs.

Technical Background

My work draws on more than twelve years of research and conservation practice across biodiversity assessment, species conservation, spatial planning, restoration, and environmental governance.

  • 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.

Professional Summary

  • Colombian Biologist with a PhD in Conservation Biology (Duke University, USA)

  • 12+ 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.

Work With Me

As a scientific advisor, I provide independent expertise to strengthen decision-making for biodiversity and conservation.

1. Independent evidence review.
Does the evidence support the claim? I assess the evidence, methods, assumptions, and conclusions behind biodiversity claims, delivering a clear, independent written assessment.2. Technical advisory:
Ongoing scientific input for panels, boards, and advisory processes, helping bring scientific rigor and ecological perspective to complex decisions.3. Scientific due diligence:
Independent assessment of the science behind conservation investments or grants, identifying strengths, uncertainties, and evidence gaps.4. Expert review:
Independent review of studies, technical reports, monitoring frameworks, and biodiversity assessments, with a focus on scientific rigor, methods, and conclusions.

© Ruben Dario Palacio 2026In my capacity as an independent scientific advisor, my views and analyses represent my professional expertise and do not necessarily reflect the institutional positions of any affiliated organization.