Tell us about yourself
I moved to Fort Collins to begin my PhD in Ecosystem Science and Sustainability. I am originally from Mexico, specifically from the northern border region, and I identify as a border person. I have lived in Mexico for most of my life. My love for being outdoors initially led me to study environmental engineering. However, over time I realized that much of engineering emphasizes rapid solutions, often leaving the root causes of problems unaddressed or generating solutions that may create new or unintended consequences. This realization pushed me toward the social and development sciences, which have taken me through diverse spaces and complexities and allowed me to learn from multiple realities.
In addition to my academic work, I am constantly seeking ways to engage with and contribute to communities at different levels. For example, I am currently a Collaborative Conservation Fellow, a member of the WCNR International Affairs Committee (IAC), previously assisted the Just Social-Ecological Transitions (J-SET) program—which I strongly encourage others to join, collaborate with, and stay engaged with—and I advise the CSU student organization Rams for Reefs. As mentioned, I occupy this position to provide the club with some assistance when needed, but the student officials and members are highly capable on their own. So, I just want to use this space to make a shout-out for Rams for Reefs and to acknowledge their impressive efforts and accomplishments achieved in such a short period of time.
When did you know that you wanted to become a scientist? What do you like most about your research field?
It is hard to identify a specific moment when I first realized I wanted to become a scientist. At different times in my life, the need to explore and deeply analyze social and environmental issues has emerged. Through various experiences, I have also realized that the policies and actions implemented to address climate and environmental issues in contexts of poverty could be improved. However, because there is often a lack of information and dialogue among different knowledge systems, these gaps have pushed me toward academia and motivated me to seek new ways of approaching these issues.
In addition to what I have mentioned above, I remember the moment when I decided to leave professional fútbol. I told myself that if I returned to my studies, I would pursue them with the same passion and commitment that I had dedicated to that sport. Looking back, I realize that this promise stayed with me, shaping my approach to learning and research ever since.
How would you explain your research to someone who is not a scientist? Can you summarize it in five sentences?
My research is currently based in the Lake Yojoa watershed in Honduras, where I address development and conservation challenges, such as how to support local livelihoods and improve population well-being while ensuring ecosystem health. Because socio-ecological issues are complex, I use multiple research methods to better understand the interdependencies between society and nature. My goal is to co-generate knowledge, in collaboration with local actors and organizations, that can inform more effective and inclusive solutions.
What are your hobbies and preferred activities when you are not doing science?
I have many hobbies, but most of them are related to sports and being outdoors. I love hiking and climbing, and I enjoy practicing many kinds of sports, especially playing fútbol. I also always look for opportunities to spend time in ecosystems with large amounts of water, such as rivers or the beach.
What are some of the challenges you’ve faced in your research?
Funding is always a challenge, not only for me but also for my collaborators. Unfortunately, analyzing socio-environmental issues and co-generating data requires financial resources—not only to support my work, but also to compensate the time and resources that research demands from collaborators. Another challenge is being physically distant from the study site. Traveling there is expensive, and, much like personal relationships, maintaining long-distance connections can be complex.
What are some of the challenges you face as an international scholar/student?
There are many challenges, but the main one could be summarized as building a life here in the United States. I moved here to pursue my PhD, which I have enjoyed and for which I am grateful. However, I have been with my wife for more than ten years, and establishing a life here has been a daily struggle. The GTA salary at my college is quite low and has resulted in limitations not only in our day-to-day living, but also in our access to the housing rental market and, more importantly, in our ability to meet the requirements of the immigration process. Our household income—currently dependent solely on mine, as my wife is not yet permitted to work—is very close to the threshold tied to the poverty line, creating additional practical difficulties and emotional fatigue. We are required to submit information related to this situation (to the migration department) and are still determining how best to respond to this request. At times, I ask myself whether coming to CSU was the right decision, rather than remaining at a Mexican university. I hope that I can provide more positive reflections on this issue at a later time.
But, once again, not all my experience is colored by these struggles. During these almost two years, I have met people who have accompanied me here, and I know that the journey as friends has just started. I have also lived experiences that I could not have easily found in Mexico, such as being a CCC Fellow or an IAC member, and all the other experiences.
Can you describe a city or place in your country that everyone should visit, and what would you recommend doing there?
I would recommend camping in Percebú. When I was a child, my family used to go there during vacations. Percebú is a beach that is part of San Felipe, Baja California. One of its most remarkable features is the tidal flat, which can be exposed for one kilometer or more during low tide. Walking across the seafloor, as if it were a savanna, with no water above your head, has always felt magical to me. I have always wanted to return, but I have not yet had the opportunity.
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