Julia E. Fa

Background

About Julia E. Fa

With 40 years of experience in academic research and teaching in conservation science, I currently serve as Professor of Biodiversity and Human Development at Manchester Metropolitan University and as a Senior Research Associate with the Centre for International Forestry Research (CIFOR). Additionally, I hold Visiting Professor roles at Imperial College London and the University of Malaga, Spain and as a Research Fellow at the University of Gibraltar.My research spans diverse disciplines, including biology, economics, anthropology, and development, reflecting the interdisciplinary nature of conservation science. I am mainly focused on addressing critical, emerging issues that pose significant threats to the long-term future of global biodiversity. These include the defaunation of tropical rainforests, the socio-economic impacts of wildlife loss on dependent communities, climate change, and the effects of diseases on both wildlife and human populations. At the heart of my work is a commitment to advancing scientific knowledge and translating it into practical solutions that benefit both biodiversity and society.In addition to research, I am deeply engaged in education, teaching across multiple academic institutions in the UK and internationally. I mentor undergraduate, postgraduate, and vocational students, fostering the next generation of conservation scientists. From 2007 to 2014, I co-directed the MSc in Conservation Science at Imperial College London, contributing to one of the leading programs in the field. My career is driven by the dual goals of generating impactful science and equipping others to contribute meaningfully to conservation challenges.