During my undergraduate years, I also had the opportunity to work on projects focused on amphibians and reptiles in the Atlantic Forest of Brazil. That’s when I truly fell in love with vertebrates—particularly frogs, snakes, tortoises, and lizards. I couldn’t help myself. If you’ve ever seen a casque-headed frog (Aparasphenodon brunoi), you’ll understand. How could I resist the allure of such an extraordinary creature? The more I worked with these animals, the more I knew I had found my calling.

Fast forward to my master’s degree, where I deepened my focus on amphibian ecology. My thesis examined the factors influencing frog communities, and I also dabbled in studying reptiles and small mammals. After finishing my MSc, I dove into a PhD in Ecology and Evolution. I was working on long-term monitoring of frog populations in the Atlantic Forest, but I didn’t stop there. I found myself also guiding undergraduate students, helping them with their research, and becoming involved in a variety of projects—everything from monitoring large mammals to exploring the behavior of birds. It felt like I was trying to understand all the vertebrates in the world!

In 2017, I founded the “Vivendo na Floresta” project (Living in the Forest project), focused on monitoring the biodiversity of the Atlantic Forest, specifically amphibians, reptiles, and mammals. This was a turning point in my career, as I moved from research into a more practical, conservation-focused approach. The project gave me the chance to work closely with local communities, educate students, and develop my skills as a project manager. Alongside this, I worked as an environmental consultant, assisting with fauna rescue, species monitoring, and preparing management plans. These experiences gave me a new perspective on conservation—one that combined both the scientific and practical aspects of biodiversity protection.

Then, in 2023, life took me on a new path to Australia. I arrived with my background in ecology and fauna monitoring, but now I had a fresh set of challenges to tackle. I dove into bush regeneration, where I learned about plant species, their roles in ecosystems, and how to restore degraded habitats. Working with native plants was a whole new world for me, but it felt like a natural progression. Understanding plants was like gaining the missing piece of the puzzle that would complete my vision of ecosystems.

In addition to my bush regeneration work, I am involved in other biodiversity monitoring projects, focusing on the conservation of wildlife and habitat management. Every day here is a new opportunity to learn, and I am excited to contribute to the conservation efforts in this unique ecosystem. Now, I see the interconnections between flora and fauna more clearly than ever before.

Looking back, I realize how far I’ve come—from analyzing phytoplankton in a lab to working in the field with frogs, reptiles, and plants in two very different parts of the world. Along the way, I’ve gained a wealth of knowledge, skills, and unforgettable experiences. But more importantly, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for the complexity and beauty of the natural world. And as I continue my career, I’m excited for the next chapter and the chance to contribute to the conservation of our planet.

RESEARCH AND PROFESSIONAL INTERESTS

I have a deep interest in community ecology, biodiversity conservation, and habitat restoration, particularly integrating fauna and flora dynamics. My expertise includes fauna monitoring (camera trapping, species surveys), spatial ecology, and the impact of climate change on ecosystems. I’m also passionate about applied environmental solutions, such as ecological assessments, biodiversity monitoring programs, and environmental impact management.

I aim to bridge science and industry, contributing to projects that promote ecological sustainability and help restore and preserve natural landscapes.

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