Galapagos Wildlife Project Logo
Portrait of Dr. Lucia Salazar
Dr. Lucia Salazar - Director of Research

Dr. Lucia Salazar

Director of Research

Biography

Dr. Lucia Salazar is a renowned ornithologist with over 15 years of experience in island ecology. Born and raised in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, Santa Cruz, she has dedicated her life to the study and conservation of the Galapagos’ unique avian fauna.

Professional Background

Dr. Salazar holds a Ph.D. in Ecology from the University of Quito and completed her postdoctoral research at the Charles Darwin Research Station. Her work focuses on the breeding biology of seabirds and the impacts of introduced predators on island ecosystems.

Role at GWP

As the Director of Research at the Galapagos Wildlife Project, Dr. Salazar oversees all scientific initiatives. She coordinates field teams, manages partnerships with international universities, and ensures that all conservation actions are based on the best available science. She is also a passionate mentor, training the next generation of Galapagueño scientists.

Selected Publications

  • Salazar, L. et al. (2023). “Breeding success of Pterodroma phaeopygia in relation to invasive predator control.” Journal of Island Conservation.
  • Salazar, L. & Mendez, S. (2021). “Acoustic monitoring of nocturnal seabirds in the Galapagos.” Avian Ecology.

Career Highlights

2010

Ph.D. in Ecology

Completed doctoral research on seabird breeding biology at the University of Quito, focusing on endemic petrel species.

2013

Postdoctoral Fellowship

Joined the Charles Darwin Research Station to study the impacts of invasive predators on island bird populations.

2018

Lead Ornithologist

Appointed as Lead Ornithologist for the Galapagos Wildlife Project, overseeing all avian conservation initiatives.

2023

Director of Research

Promoted to Director of Research, coordinating international scientific partnerships and field operations across the archipelago.