Ecologist and PhD in Naturales Sciences with expertise in tropical freshwater ecosystems, Dr. Ricaurte bridges cutting-edge research with community-based conservation. Her work focuses on aquatic ecology, ecosystem functioning, ecosystem services and sustainable management of water resources in vulnerable tropical regions. With over a 30-years experience in interdisciplinary research, she has led projects assessing anthropogenic impacts on aquatic biodiversity while co-designing solutions with local communities. Her publications advance understanding of ecological connectivity and conservation strategies for neotropical systems. At Wajari, she coordinates scientific programs that integrate traditional knowledge with empirical research to develop nature-based solutions. Committed to capacity-building, she mentors young scientists and facilitates dialogue between researchers and Indigenous communities.