Ridwan Jaafar

Developed comprehensive guidelines, briefs, learning modules, and training materials in collaboration with the Communications team, creating impactful resources for global environmental initiatives.

Organized and coordinated diverse programs, including workshops, training sessions, presentations, meetings, and grant writing, significantly contributing to Embrace the Earth Europe's strategic objectives.

Led a research project on forest landscape restoration and assessed limitations to nature-recovery, providing strategic insights for conservation efforts.

Facilitated cross-cultural communication by translating between visiting scientists and community stakeholders, ensuring effective knowledge exchange and project success.

Co-wrote and submitted a PISCCA grant for 'Beyond Bees,' a project designed to empower youth and women in forest communities through sustainable beekeeping and honey production.

Created and curated the @Ngel_Nyaki X (formerly Twitter) account, building an online community of over 1000 followers to raise awareness for conservation projects.

Published a manuscript as primary author, presented research at national and international forums (e.g., WRI Global Restoration Initiative), enhancing project visibility and impact.

Developed a Data Management Protocol (DMP) guiding data usage and privacy for trainee students, improving data integrity and compliance.

Secured a FWO research fellowship and co-authored a senior research project grant, contributing to the acquisition of €369,958.00 for critical research initiatives.

Managed greenhouse and experimental garden operations, including processing imports and phyto-sanitary permits for research materials, ensuring seamless research flow.

Coordinated two field excursions to Nature reserves in Flanders for the MSc terrestrial ecology course, co-designed and facilitated laboratory and data analysis practicals, enhancing student practical skills.

Supervised and mentored two MSc students, providing comprehensive guidance on experimental design, data analysis, and thesis writing, fostering next-generation researchers.

Evaluated and examined a Bachelor thesis on plant-soil feedback, ensuring academic rigor and quality.

Executed lab analysis and data processing, supporting the writing of a publication draft to advance scientific dissemination.

Delivered a guest lecture for the MSc spatial ecology module at Martin-Luther University, Halle, enhancing student understanding of complex ecological concepts.

Collected and analyzed physical, chemical, and phytoplankton data from multiple locations along the Karl-Heine-Kanal and Clara-Zetkin park in Leipzig, providing foundational data for ecological studies.

Designed and implemented studies to evaluate the impact of environmental conditions and climate on phytoplankton communities, addressing crucial water quality issues.

Assisted Dr. Susanne Dunker on freshwater ecology practical classes for University of Leipzig MSc students, supporting hands-on learning experiences.

Completed national youth service, performing primary assignments within the Department of Planning, Intergovernmental & Community Relations.

Supported agency staff in planning capital projects focused on human capacity development, agriculture, education, and social intervention.

Conducted research and drafted comprehensive briefing notes, analyzing potential growth areas and identifying expansion opportunities to enhance organizational capacity and reach.

Supported three directors across the agricultural value chain (farming, trading, processing), contributing to strategic decision-making and operational efficiency.

Assisted in data collection for 5 PhD students from the University of Canterbury, contributing to numerous research projects including the Smithsonian ForestGeo plot census.

Contributed as a team member to the BirdLife International IBA (Important Bird Area) monitoring and habitat assessment, supporting global conservation efforts.

Co-founded the Ecology Students Forum in 2017 and served as its pioneer chairman, establishing a platform for student engagement in conservation and STEM fields.

Mentored undergraduate students from underrepresented Northern Nigerian Universities, providing resources and guidance to foster their engagement in conservation and STEM fields.

Contributed to the successful implementation of the SDGs4universities workshop, aligning with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals Framework.

Synthesized Malaysia's Ecologically Sensitive Area (ESA) policy documents into clear, concise summaries, facilitating stakeholder engagement and the Kenyir State Park management plan workshop.

Conducted monitoring surveys of large flying fox populations using field observations and drones, contributing to biodiversity conservation efforts.

Independently compiled a 'Bird species checklist of Kampung Basung,' supporting community awareness and outreach on local biodiversity.