Biosketches of the newly elected Board Members
Janire is a Wild Animal Welfare Researcher at the Wild Animal Initiative, where she focuses on academic engagement, and a Postdoctoral Researcher in Animal Welfare at Newcastle University, UK. Her research sits at the intersection of conservation biology and animal welfare science—a linkage that is increasingly recognized as essential for effective conservation. Janire is particularly interested in addressing language barriers that can exclude valuable European perspectives from international conservation discourse, an issue she actively works on in her current roles. She brings a distinctive perspective that integrates animal welfare considerations into conservation planning to the SCB Europe Board.
Alberto is an evolutionary biologist and conservation genomics researcher from Spain. His work aims to elucidate the processes shaping species persistence and biodiversity change through an interdisciplinary approach that integrates genomics, ecology, and advanced computational, statistical, and modelling frameworks. Alberto’s key interests include translating genomic insights into conservation practice, modernizing conservation through evolutionary perspectives, and addressing long-standing taxonomic and ecosystem imbalances in conservation priorities —particularly the disparity between marine and terrestrial systems.
Luís is a PhD candidate whose research focuses on trans-latitudinal and climatic patterns in marine vertebrates, with particular interest in fish, cetaceans, and seabirds. Through his work at the University of the Azores and the Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Changes, he has gained insight into the urgent need to better connect ecological knowledge with conservation action, especially in regions facing distinctive biodiversity challenges. As a resident of Portugal and the Azores, Luís is especially motivated to promote a geographically balanced and inclusive approach to conservation science in Europe, with strong advocacy for Atlantic archipelagos.
Volker holds a doctorate in Law, Bachelor’s degrees in Law and Natural Sciences, and Master’s degrees in Law, Natural Sciences, and Ecological Economics. He has over 30 years of experience working in conservation across academia, the private sector, and NGOs, from the global level (including UN and IPBES processes) to local initiatives. Drawing on his extensive multidisciplinary background and experience serving on other boards, Volker contributes valuable cross-disciplinary perspectives to the further development of SCB Europe’s organizational work. He is particularly committed to supporting the transition from conservation biology to a broader, more integrative conservation science.
We look forward to working with you and are very happy for you joining the SCB Europe board team!
