Be part of the change. Support our work and help us protect our planet’s biodiversity.

 

ProCAT is a team of highly qualified and passionate individuals dedicated to conserving biodiversity and improving the quality of life for communities. We are committed to interdisciplinary collaboration and evidence-based conservation.

Our Mission

To promote, encourage, and develop research on biological resources and social-cultural development within a framework of sustainability. We design holistic conservation plans for species, ecosystems, and cultural resources through an interdisciplinary approach, striving for human well-being and biodiversity conservation.

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Our Vision

To be a leading source of reliable information for natural resource and cultural heritage planning, promoting sustainable socioeconomic development, evaluating threats, and providing sustainable solutions for the conservation of tropical flora and fauna.

Where we work

ProCAT focuses on critical areas of high biological and cultural relevance, responding to the urgent needs of threatened ecosystems and species.

Our primary focus is on Colombia and Costa Rica, but we also collaborate on projects across the Americas, including Mexico, Chile, and the USA.

RESEARCH TEAMM

Sigma Xi, The Scientific Research Honor Society

DMBA Catalina Moreno-Díaz

Financial Sustainability Coordinator

Marine Biologist from Jorge Tadeo Lozano University, with an MBA in Business Administration and Management and a specialization in Project Management. She combines scientific knowledge with leadership and management skills, focusing on sustainable projects and innovative solutions.

She has experience in planning and executing interdisciplinary initiatives, achieving efficient results within established deadlines and budgets. She is committed to developing projects that generate a positive impact and foster collaboration.

administracion@procat-conservation.org

M.Sc. Maria alejandra parrado

Information Analysis and Management

Biologist from Pontificia Universidad Javeriana in Bogotá with a Master’s degree in Biology from Universidad Industrial de Santander (UIS). With a deep passion for birds of prey, I have dedicated my career to the conservation of endangered species like the Andean condor. My work integrates traditional knowledge with formal science, citizen science, movement ecology, spatial modeling, and socio-ecological system analysis. Through my experience, I have developed statistical and spatial analyses to guide multidisciplinary conservation efforts at both national and international levels.

alejapvargas07@gmail.com

M.Sc. Laura X. Mendoza Cortes Sánchez

Knowledge Management Coordinator

Biologist from Universidad Militar Nueva Granada and MSc in Conservation and Sustainable Use of Biodiversity from Pontificia Universidad Javeriana. I have experience in functional ecology of wildlife, environmental impact assessment, and biological surveys. I have participated in Environmental Licensing processes and biodiversity consulting in various regions of the country, working with different faunal groups in conservation, monitoring, and community engagement. I also have experience in in situ conservation, the management of wildlife affected by illegal trafficking, and environmental education.

lmendoza@procat-conservation.org

Sigma Xi, The Scientific Research Honor Society

B.Sc. Camilo Paredes-Casas

Field Research Coordinator

Biologist with a solid background in environmental education and veterinary sciences, currently serving as the Field Research Coordinator at ProCAT. My passion for animals, both domestic and wild, has driven me to develop and implement strategies focused on species conservation and biodiversity protection.

My professional approach combines a love for nature with a strong commitment to the environment, always seeking to generate a positive impact through teamwork and collaboration with various stakeholders. I also deeply value the small joys in life—like enjoying a good meal—while continuing to imagine new ways to contribute to the planet’s well-being.

camiloc9108@gmail.com

lumartinezestevez@gmail.com

M.Sc. Angela P. Hurtado-Moreno

Spatial and Visual Researcher

Biologist and Master’s graduate in Protected Areas and Ecoregional Planning. Angela provides critical support by contributing to ProCAT’s spatial research and creating visually engaging materials. She also serves as a consultant for the Bogotá District Secretariat for the Environment. A true city enthusiast who enjoys exploring Bogota’s natural beauty and creating eco-themed crafts. angelahur9@gmail.com

Paula Andrea Rodriguez Zorro

Quality, Safety, and Occupational Health Coordinator

Professional in Business Administration from Universidad Militar Nueva Granada and Specialist in Occupational Toxicology from the University of Girona, Spain. I have extensive experience in the design, implementation, and auditing of management systems based on international standards such as ISO 45001, ISO 9001, and ISO 14001, ensuring compliance with occupational health and safety regulations.

My professional approach is focused on creating safe and healthy work environments by developing effective prevention strategies that safeguard workers’ health. I am also committed to strengthening safety culture within organizations, promoting responsible practices that ensure sustainability and well-being in the workplace.

Procesos@procat-conservation.org

Sigma Xi, The Scientific Research Honor Society

Marilyn Ávila García

ICT-certified Tourism Guide. Field Professional and Environmental Educator

Marilyn is a naturalist committed to biodiversity protection, with several years of experience in research and conservation projects. She has worked tirelessly in field research and in developing environmental education activities to create a positive impact on the conservation of ecosystems and threatened species. Her vision for the future is to dedicate her life to conservation, inspiring others to join this important cause and ensuring a future where nature and humans can coexist in harmony.

In her free time, she enjoys birdwatching, searching for amphibians at night, hiking, and discovering new places and people. She loves the mountains, and one day hopes to run all the way to the summit of Chirripó, the highest peak in Costa Rica.

mari19se@gmail.com

TEAM OF ASSOCIATE RESEARCHERS

Sigma Xi, The Scientific Research Honor Society

I. Mauricio Vela-Vargas

ASSOCIATE RESEARCHER

Sergio Escobar Lasso

ASSOCIATE RESEARCHER

Giovanni Andrés Gómez

ASSOCIATE RESEARCHER

M.Sc. Leonardo Lemus-Mejía

ASSOCIATE RESEARCHER

Sigma Xi, The Scientific Research Honor Society

J. Sebastián Jiménez-Alvarado

ASSOCIATE RESEARCHER

Irene Aconcha-Abril

ASSOCIATE RESEARCHER

Lorena Marín

ASSOCIATE RESEARCHER

SCIENTIFIC COUNCIL

Beth Polidoro

Michael Mikelberg

Fernando Castañeda

Fidela Charry

David Zárrate Charry

Sherry Luger

Sergio Balaguera-Reina

ALLIES AND PARNERS