معرفی
Francisco Álvares is a Principal Researcher at CIBIO-InBIO, Research Center in Biodiversity and Genetic Resources, affiliated with the University of Porto, Portugal. He holds a PhD and leads research on large carnivores, particularly the Iberian wolf, in human-dominated landscapes. He is also an external collaborator at the Museu de História Natural e da Ciência da Universidade do Porto, managing the Mammal collections.
- Position: Principal Researcher
- Institution: CIBIO-InBIO, University of Porto
- Research Group: CONGEN
- Email: falvares@cibio.up.pt
- Membership: Large Carnivore Initiative for Europe (IUCN), Iberian Wolf Research Team
His research focuses on wildlife ecology, conservation, and management of large carnivores, with emphasis on human-wildlife interactions such as livestock depredation, behavioral responses to infrastructure, and ethno-biological aspects. He has conducted fieldwork across Europe, Africa, and Asia, assessing populations of canids including wolves, jackals, and wild dogs. His work integrates ecological monitoring with conservation policy, contributing to environmental impact assessments for major infrastructure projects.
The recent publications highlight trends in conservation physiology (e.g., hair cortisol as a stress biomarker), population genetics, disease ecology (e.g., sarcoptic mange), and spatial ecology of wolves and other carnivores. His studies often employ non-invasive methods and long-term monitoring to inform management strategies in human-modified landscapes.
He has participated in over 50 research and monitoring projects, many related to hydroelectric and wind energy developments in Portugal, ensuring ecological considerations are integrated into infrastructure planning. His advisory roles extend to national and international bodies, including the European Commission.
- Scientific Contributions: Over 40 publications, including 24 in indexed journals
- Projects: EDP Sabor, EDP Tua, LoboNW, LoboSulDouro, and others
- Supervision: Involved in student theses and research training
Francisco Álvares leads field teams and collaborates with international scientists, contributing to global understanding of carnivore conservation. His work bridges science and policy, promoting sustainable coexistence between humans and wildlife.
