Amazon Research Int (ARI) is a non-profit organisation based in Peru, dedicated to conserving Amazonian biodiversity, ecosystems, and indigenous knowledge. By uniting modern science with traditional wisdom, we create innovative conservation solutions that honor biocultural heritage. Our work spans scientific research, education, and community empowerment, focusing on regenerating degraded ecosystems, mitigating climate change, and fostering nature- and culture-positive livelihoods. While stingless bees serve as symbolic species representing the health of the Amazon Rainforest, our mission also champions traditional medicine, biodiversity, and the rights of nature. Together, these efforts strengthen sustainability, fair trade, and the preservation of indigenous wisdom.

OUR MISSION

Regenerate fragile Amazonian biodiversity, ecosystems and cultural heritage by uniting traditional knowledge with modern science through conservation, research, policy, and empowerment of native communities and leaders.

Team

  • Rosa Vásquez Espinoza, Ph.D.

    Founder and Executive Director

    A scientist and explorer, Rosa leads ARI's scientific and conservation strategy. A National Geographic Explorer, BBC 100 Women awardee, and UN Harmony with Nature Scientist, she bridges indigenous wisdom and modern science to protect Amazonian biodiversity.

  • Alejandro Zavaleta

    Vicepresident and Director of Finances

    With 16 years of experience in finance, strategy, and technology, and a degree in Marketing and Commercial Management, Alejandro advances ARI’s mission to conserve Amazonian biodiversity.

  • Miryan Delgado

    Director of Programs and Projects

    With an MBA and a degree in Psychology, along with extensive experience in social development and project management, Miryan leads ARI's programmes both in the field and across the region.

  • Rosangela Mariño

    Projects Coordinator

    With a B.A. in Business Administration and experience in project coordination and social development, Rosangela supports ARI’s work by overseeing project and programme logistics.

  • Julissa Tarrillo

    Educational Coordinator

    With an M.A. in Education and 15+ years of experience in education, social project management, and teacher training, Julissa supports ARI’s educational initiatives to empower communities.

Indigenous and Local Partners in Peru

  • Cesar Delgado, Ph.D.

    Scientific Researcher

    Stingless Bee Expert, Educator, and Scientist at the Institute of Investigation of the Peruvian Amazon (IIAP). Dr. Cesar serves as a scientific advisor for ARI, supporting beekeeping training and research.

  • Cesar Ramos

    President of EcoAshaninka

    An indigenous leader dedicated to protecting biodiversity and cultural heritage, representing 25 Asháninka, Machiguenga, and Kakinte communities in the UNESCO Avireri-VRAEM Biosphere.

  • Richar Demetrio

    Ashaninka Scientist and Park Ranger

    A dedicated stingless beekeeper, published scientist, and advocate for indigenous representation in research and conservation, Richar is also a member of EcoAshaninka.

  • David Cárdenas

    Director of Reserva Comunal Ashaninka - SERNAN

    An agronomy engineer with over 20 years of experience working with indigenous communities, David plays a key role in conservation efforts within the UNESCO Avireri-VRAEM Biosphere.

  • Stefanie Torres

    President of Asociación de Meliponicultores de la Región Loreto

    A Kukama-Kukamiria leader, educator, and passionate stingless beekeeper, Stefanie drives conservation and beekeeping initiatives in the region, with a strong focus on female empowerment.

  • Heriberto Vela

    Beekeeper and Ecotourism Guide

    A Kukama-kukamiria leader and beekeeper, Heriberto supports research, conservation and capacity building efforts in the Loreto region.

  • Ornella Muñoz

    Forestry Engineer

    An Amazonian scientist, Ornella advances forestry and stingless bee research in Loreto with ARI. She leads conservation workshops and empowers youth in science.

  • Luis Garcia

    Biologist and Wildlife Photograper

    Luis has extensive experience in wildlife research and fieldwork. His photos have been published in The New York Times, and he is currently leading linguistic analysis on traditional bee knowledge.

  • Avita Cuarima

    Biologist, Translator and Ecotourism Guide

    A Kukama-Kukamiria Amazonian tour guide, translator (English-Spanish), and emerging biologist, Avita supports our expeditions with translation and deep knowledge of the rainforest.

  • Juan Rodrigo Baselly Villanueva

    Forestry Research Specialist

    A published scientist with extensive experience leading research initiatives in the Amazon, Rodrigo supports ARI’s studies on Amazonian biodiversity and anthropogenic impacts.

  • Rosa Coquinchi Tamani

    Master Artisan and Expert in Natural Dyes

    A skilled Kukama-kukamiria artisan with deep knowledge of natural dyes and traditional Amazonian art. She preserves and shares ancestral techniques, creating vibrant textiles that celebrate indigenous heritage.

  • Micaela Huaman Fernandez

    Ashaninka Leader, Conservation Advocate, and Artisan

    Micaela advocates for female youth in conservation and cultural preservation. She leads a local association of female artisans, empowering women through craftsmanship and advocacy.

International Collaborators

  • Earth Law Center

    Environmental advocacy

    NGO dedicated to the legal protection of nature. We collaborate with Constanza Prieto, Javier Ruiz and Bastian Nuñez to advance conservation advocacy and Rights of Nature.

    USA and Latin America

  • Callie Veelenturf

    Founder of The Leatherback Project and For Nature

    Callie supports ARI in identifying funding opportunities and advising on Rights of Nature and science-based conservation efforts in the Amazon Rainforest.

    Ecuador, Panamá, USA

  • Jorge Medina Gutierrez

    Beekeeper and Liaison

    Jorge works closely with Ese Ejja communities in Bolivia, advancing stingless bee conservation and rainforest protection through engineering and community-led initiatives.

    Bolivia

  • Julianna Faria

    Chemical Engineer and Researcher

    A chemical engineering graduate supporting ARI in scientific writing and research development. She has participated in fieldwork with Ashaninka communities, contributing to data collection and analysis.

    USA

  • Maria Garcia

    Educator and Blog Writer

    A bilingual Spanish educator based in Madrid, Maria supports ARI by writing blogs on Amazonian biodiversity and conservation.

    Spain

  • Freya Park

    Conservation Strategist

    With experience across the UK, Europe, and Canada, Freya has led international negotiations on conservation priorities at COP and global forums. She supports ARI through strategy building and advocacy.

    UK