Dr. Thais Morcatty

Biography

Thais Morcatty is an environmental scientist dedicated to understanding socio-ecological systems in tropical environments of the Global South. Her research focuses on biodiversity governance, sustainability, and people-centered conservation, integrating local ecological knowledge (LEK) with biodiversity monitoring and conservation policies to empower Indigenous local communities. Thais investigates the determinants, mechanisms, and impacts of wildlife exploitation and trade in the context of urbanization and biodiversity conservation, examining the links to zoonotic disease outbreaks. She is particularly interested in the effects of climate change on tropical biodiversity and the adaptation strategies of local communities, aiming to inform public policy. Thais's research combines elements of human and physical geography, employing social science methodologies alongside quantitative analyses to provide a comprehensive understanding of contemporary conservation challenges. By developing innovative, evidence-based solutions, she promotes sustainable development and biodiversity protection in rapidly changing ecosystems.

Research Interests

Experience