dr. R (Rodrigo) Muñoz Aviles

Rodrigo Muñoz is a Mexican ecologist with a specialization in the study of forests and their drivers of change. His research interests encompass a wide range, from tree physiology and anatomy to comprehensive comparisons of forest ecosystems across the world. Currently, he performs as Researcher at Wageningen Environmental Research, with a focus in modelling the dynamics of European forests, and using this information to advise the activities of a broad range of stakeholders: from scientific researchers to the industry to policy and decision makers.

He is an active member of the 2ndFOR network, dedicated to the study of tropical forest recovery, and was part of the iDIV sUCCESS group, focusing on synthesizing forest succession knowledge. He has authored and coauthored over twenty-five scientific publications, four datasets, a book chapter and three research thesis dissertations (BSc, MSc and PhD). He has presented his research at numerous international academic conferences.

One of Rodrigo's most significant career achievements is his contribution to the creation of the Nizanda Tropical Dry Forest dataset. This dataset, compiled over two decades, meticulously documents the dynamics of secondary and old-growth tropical dry forests in the Nizanda region of southern Mexico. It stands as one of the most extensive and detailed surveys of tropical dry forest recovery and dynamics worldwide.

At the time, Rodrigo’s career is embedded on the broad topic of sustainable development. He envisions leveraging his diverse experiences, from interacting with subsistence farmers to collaborating with international experts, to design research programs and advise in policies that alleviate poverty, mitigate ecological degradation, and promote fairness among all stakeholders, all with a global perspective.

• No ancillary activities (16-4-2019/31-12-2099)