Biodiversity Research Course
Why this course?
The Biodiversity Research course
Immerses you in the fascinating world of life on Earth, from the most remote ecosystems to microscopic organisms. You will learn to apply cutting-edge scientific methodologies to the study and conservation of biodiversity, including sampling techniques, genetic analysis, and ecological modeling. This program will provide you with the necessary tools to identify, assess, and manage biodiversity in a context of global change.
Differential Advantages
- Practical Approach: Field and laboratory activities for applying acquired knowledge.
- Analytical Tools: Use of specialized software for biodiversity data analysis.
- Collaboration with Experts: Interaction with leading researchers in the field of biodiversity.
- Research Projects: Opportunity to participate in real research projects.
- Professional Development: Preparation for careers in research, conservation, and environmental management.
- Modality: Online
- Level: Cursos
- Hours: 150 H
- Start date: 25-04-2026
Availability: 1 in stock
Who is it aimed at?
- Biology, ecology, and environmental science students seeking a practical introduction to sampling methodologies, species identification, and data analysis.
- Conservation professionals wishing to update their skills in biodiversity monitoring, the use of technological tools, and the interpretation of results for ecosystem management.
- Environmental consultants needing to strengthen their expertise in environmental impact studies, biodiversity assessments, and mitigation plans.
- Science educators and communicators interested in enriching their content with up-to-date information on biodiversity and tools for effective teaching and communication.
- Citizens interested in nature and seeking to contribute to the knowledge and conservation of biodiversity through citizen science and monitoring projects Participative.
Flexibility and access
Designed to adapt to your pace: downloadable materials, asynchronous discussion forums, and unlimited access throughout the course period.
Objectives and competencies
Catalog and thoroughly analyze the local flora and fauna:
“Implement standardized sampling methodologies, using taxonomic identification tools and data analysis to understand biodiversity and species distribution.”
Assess the impact of human activities on vulnerable ecosystems:
“Analyze the vulnerability of specific ecosystems and identify key indicators to measure the impact of activities such as deforestation, pollution, and tourism.”
Develop innovative methodologies for species monitoring:
Implement environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis techniques for non-invasive detection and monitoring of populations.
Develop conservation strategies based on robust scientific data:
“Integrate predictive models of species distribution and population viability analysis into the planning of marine protected areas, considering climate change scenarios.”
Promoting interdisciplinary collaboration in biodiversity studies:
Develop effective communication and conflict management skills to facilitate synergies between experts from different disciplines.
Interpreting species distribution patterns to predict environmental changes:
“Analyze abundance and presence/absence data, using ecological niche models to project future distributions under climate change scenarios and assess species vulnerability.”
Curriculum - Modules
- Comprehensive Maritime Incident Management: protocols, roles, and chain of command for coordinated response
- Operational Planning and Execution: briefing, routes, weather windows, and go/no-go criteria
- Rapid Risk Assessment: criticality matrix, scene control, and decision-making under pressure
- Operational Communication: VHF/GMDSS, standardized reports, and inter-agency liaison
- Tactical Mobility and Safe Boarding: RHIB maneuvers, approach, mooring, and recovery
- Equipment and Technologies: PPE, signaling, satellite tracking, and field data logging
- Immediate Care of the Affected: primary assessment, hypothermia, trauma, and stabilization for evacuation
- Adverse Environmental Conditions: swell, Visibility, flows, and operational mitigation
Simulation and training: critical scenarios, use of VR/AR, and exercises with performance metrics
Documentation and continuous improvement: lessons learned, indicators (MTTA/MTTR), and SOP updates
- Introduction to Biodiversity: Definition, Levels, and Value
- Biodiversity Inventory: Sampling, Identification, and Recording Methods
- Taxonomy and Systematics: Classification and Nomenclature of Organisms
- Population and Community Ecology: Population Dynamics and Interactions
- Biodiversity Data Analysis: Metrics of Diversity, Abundance, and Distribution
- Use of GIS for Spatial Analysis of Biodiversity
- Threats to Biodiversity: Habitat Loss, Pollution, Climate Change
- In Situ Conservation: Protected Areas, Ecosystem Management
- Ex Situ Conservation: Germplasm banks, zoos, botanical gardens
Legislation and policies for biodiversity conservation
‘
- Introduction to biodiversity: concept, levels, and value.
- Biodiversity inventory: sampling, identification, and classification methods.
- Analysis of biodiversity data: metrics of diversity, abundance, and distribution.
- Population and community ecology: interactions, dynamics, and patterns.
- Threats to biodiversity: habitat loss, overexploitation, pollution, and climate change.
- In situ conservation: protected areas, adaptive management, and ecological restoration.
- Ex situ conservation: germplasm banks, zoos, and botanical gardens.
- Conservation legislation and policies: international agreements and national regulations.
- Environmental impact assessment: methodologies and tools for Mitigation.
- Environmental education and citizen participation: strategies for awareness and engagement.
‘
- Introduction to Biodiversity: Definition, importance, and levels of organization.
- Inventory Design: Objectives, site selection, sampling, and key variables.
- Sampling Techniques: Transects, plots, point counts, and methods specific to each taxonomic group.
- Species Identification: Field guides, dichotomous keys, and taxonomic resources.
- Monitoring Tools: GPS, camera traps, remote sensors, and data analysis software.
- Data Analysis: Diversity metrics, relative abundance, spatial distribution, and temporal trends.
- Biodiversity Indicators: Selection, evaluation, and application in monitoring.
- Monitoring Participatory: Community involvement, training, and data collection.
Interpretation of Results: Assessment of the state of biodiversity, identification of threats, and recommendations.
Communication and Dissemination: Preparation of reports, presentations, and dissemination strategies.
‘
- Introduction to Key Species Inventory and Monitoring: Definitions and Objectives
- Identification of Key Species: Selection and Prioritization Criteria
- Design of Sampling Protocols: Field Techniques and Statistical Considerations
- Inventory Techniques: Direct and Indirect Detection and Counting Methods
- Population Monitoring: Estimation of Abundance, Density, and Growth Rates
- Habitat and Distribution: Assessment and Mapping of Important Areas
- Threats and Pressures: Identification and Analysis of Risk Factors
- Data Analysis: Interpretation of Results and Preparation of Technical Reports
- Conservation Strategies: Planning and management of protection measures.
Communication and dissemination: Dissemination of results and environmental awareness.
‘
- System Architecture and Components: Structural design, materials, and subsystems (mechanical, electrical, electronic, and fluid) with selection and assembly criteria for marine environments
- Fundamentals and Principles of Operation: Physical and engineering foundations (thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, electricity, control, and materials) that explain performance and operating limits
- Safety and Environmental (SHE): Risk analysis, PPE, LOTO, hazardous atmospheres, spill and waste management, and emergency response plans
- Applicable Regulations and Standards: IMO/ISO/IEC requirements and local regulations;
- Conformance criteria, certification, and best practices for operation and maintenance
- Inspection, testing, and diagnostics: Visual/dimensional inspection, functional testing, data analysis, and predictive techniques (vibration, thermography, fluid analysis) to identify root causes
- Preventive and predictive maintenance: Hourly/cycle/seasonal plans, lubrication, adjustments, calibrations, consumable replacement, post-service verification, and operational reliability
- Instrumentation, tools, and metrology: Measuring and testing equipment, diagnostic software, calibration and traceability; selection criteria, safe use, and storage
- Onboard integration and interfaces: Mechanical, electrical, fluid, and data compatibility; Sealing and watertightness, EMC/EMI, corrosion protection, and interoperability testing.
Quality, acceptance testing, and commissioning: process and materials control, FAT/SAT, bench and sea trials, go/no-go criteria, and evidence documentation.
Technical documentation and integrated practice: logs, checklists, reports, and a complete case study (safety → diagnosis → intervention → verification → report) applicable to any system.
Plan de estudio - Módulos
- Comprehensive Maritime Incident Management: protocols, roles, and chain of command for coordinated response
- Operational Planning and Execution: briefing, routes, weather windows, and go/no-go criteria
- Rapid Risk Assessment: criticality matrix, scene control, and decision-making under pressure
- Operational Communication: VHF/GMDSS, standardized reports, and inter-agency liaison
- Tactical Mobility and Safe Boarding: RHIB maneuvers, approach, mooring, and recovery
- Equipment and Technologies: PPE, signaling, satellite tracking, and field data logging
- Immediate Care of the Affected: primary assessment, hypothermia, trauma, and stabilization for evacuation
- Adverse Environmental Conditions: swell, Visibility, flows, and operational mitigation
Simulation and training: critical scenarios, use of VR/AR, and exercises with performance metrics
Documentation and continuous improvement: lessons learned, indicators (MTTA/MTTR), and SOP updates
- Introduction to Biodiversity: Definition, Levels, and Value
- Biodiversity Inventory: Sampling, Identification, and Recording Methods
- Taxonomy and Systematics: Classification and Nomenclature of Organisms
- Population and Community Ecology: Population Dynamics and Interactions
- Biodiversity Data Analysis: Metrics of Diversity, Abundance, and Distribution
- Use of GIS for Spatial Analysis of Biodiversity
- Threats to Biodiversity: Habitat Loss, Pollution, Climate Change
- In Situ Conservation: Protected Areas, Ecosystem Management
- Ex Situ Conservation: Germplasm banks, zoos, botanical gardens
Legislation and policies for biodiversity conservation
‘
- Introduction to biodiversity: concept, levels, and value.
- Biodiversity inventory: sampling, identification, and classification methods.
- Analysis of biodiversity data: metrics of diversity, abundance, and distribution.
- Population and community ecology: interactions, dynamics, and patterns.
- Threats to biodiversity: habitat loss, overexploitation, pollution, and climate change.
- In situ conservation: protected areas, adaptive management, and ecological restoration.
- Ex situ conservation: germplasm banks, zoos, and botanical gardens.
- Conservation legislation and policies: international agreements and national regulations.
- Environmental impact assessment: methodologies and tools for Mitigation.
- Environmental education and citizen participation: strategies for awareness and engagement.
‘
- Introduction to Biodiversity: Definition, importance, and levels of organization.
- Inventory Design: Objectives, site selection, sampling, and key variables.
- Sampling Techniques: Transects, plots, point counts, and methods specific to each taxonomic group.
- Species Identification: Field guides, dichotomous keys, and taxonomic resources.
- Monitoring Tools: GPS, camera traps, remote sensors, and data analysis software.
- Data Analysis: Diversity metrics, relative abundance, spatial distribution, and temporal trends.
- Biodiversity Indicators: Selection, evaluation, and application in monitoring.
- Monitoring Participatory: Community involvement, training, and data collection.
Interpretation of Results: Assessment of the state of biodiversity, identification of threats, and recommendations.
Communication and Dissemination: Preparation of reports, presentations, and dissemination strategies.
‘
- Introduction to Key Species Inventory and Monitoring: Definitions and Objectives
- Identification of Key Species: Selection and Prioritization Criteria
- Design of Sampling Protocols: Field Techniques and Statistical Considerations
- Inventory Techniques: Direct and Indirect Detection and Counting Methods
- Population Monitoring: Estimation of Abundance, Density, and Growth Rates
- Habitat and Distribution: Assessment and Mapping of Important Areas
- Threats and Pressures: Identification and Analysis of Risk Factors
- Data Analysis: Interpretation of Results and Preparation of Technical Reports
- Conservation Strategies: Planning and management of protection measures.
Communication and dissemination: Dissemination of results and environmental awareness.
‘
- System Architecture and Components: Structural design, materials, and subsystems (mechanical, electrical, electronic, and fluid) with selection and assembly criteria for marine environments
- Fundamentals and Principles of Operation: Physical and engineering foundations (thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, electricity, control, and materials) that explain performance and operating limits
- Safety and Environmental (SHE): Risk analysis, PPE, LOTO, hazardous atmospheres, spill and waste management, and emergency response plans
- Applicable Regulations and Standards: IMO/ISO/IEC requirements and local regulations;
- Conformance criteria, certification, and best practices for operation and maintenance
- Inspection, testing, and diagnostics: Visual/dimensional inspection, functional testing, data analysis, and predictive techniques (vibration, thermography, fluid analysis) to identify root causes
- Preventive and predictive maintenance: Hourly/cycle/seasonal plans, lubrication, adjustments, calibrations, consumable replacement, post-service verification, and operational reliability
- Instrumentation, tools, and metrology: Measuring and testing equipment, diagnostic software, calibration and traceability; selection criteria, safe use, and storage
- Onboard integration and interfaces: Mechanical, electrical, fluid, and data compatibility; Sealing and watertightness, EMC/EMI, corrosion protection, and interoperability testing.
Quality, acceptance testing, and commissioning: process and materials control, FAT/SAT, bench and sea trials, go/no-go criteria, and evidence documentation.
Technical documentation and integrated practice: logs, checklists, reports, and a complete case study (safety → diagnosis → intervention → verification → report) applicable to any system.
- Introduction to Biological Inventory: Definition, Objectives, and Applications
- Principles of Taxonomy and Systematics: Classification and Identification of Organisms
- Sampling Design: Strategies, Sampling Types, and Sample Size
- Flora Sampling Techniques: Quadrant, Transect, and Cover Estimation Methods
- Fauna Sampling Techniques: Capture, Marking and Recapture, Sighting, and Tracking
- Microorganism Sampling: Isolation, Culture, and Identification Techniques
- Ecological Data Analysis: Diversity, Abundance, and Evenness Indices
- Environmental Monitoring: Biological Indicators, Quality of Water, soil, and air
Environmental Legislation and Regulations Applicable to Inventory and Monitoring
Ethics and Responsibility in Biological Inventory and Environmental Monitoring
‘
- Introduction to regional biodiversity: concepts, importance, and threats
- Inventory design: objectives, scope, selection of species/focal groups
- Sampling methods: transects, quadrats, point counts, capture-recapture
- Identification techniques: dichotomous keys, field guides, DNA barcoding
- Data management: databases, analysis software, quality standards
- Biodiversity indicators: richness, abundance, diversity, evenness
- Report preparation: maps, graphs, tables, interpretation of results
- Population monitoring: temporal tracking, trend analysis, demographic models
- Conservation status assessment: red lists, threat criteria, conservation plans action
- Ethics in biodiversity research and communication of results
‘
- Introduction to Biodiversity: Concepts, Levels, and Value
- Sampling Techniques: Design, Strategies, and Ethical Considerations
- Flora Inventory: Identification Methods, Herbarium Collection, and Data Analysis
- Terrestrial Fauna Inventory: Trapping, Sighting, and Tracking
- Aquatic Fauna Inventory: Capture, Identification, and Monitoring Methods
- Ecosystem Monitoring: Key Indicators, Baseline Establishment, and Long-Term Monitoring
- Biodiversity Data Analysis: Metrics, Software, and Interpretation
- Remote Sensing and GIS: Applications in Monitoring Biodiversity
Biodiversity Conservation: Strategies, Planning, and Management
Environmental Legislation and Public Policies Related to Biodiversity‘
- Introduction to Biodiversity: Key Concepts, Scales, and Patterns
- Biodiversity Inventory: Sampling Methods, Identification, and Recording of Species
- Analysis of Biodiversity Data: Metrics of Diversity, Relative Abundance, and Species Distribution
- Population and Community Ecology: Biotic Interactions and Environmental Factors
- Biogeography: Species Distribution and Factors that Determine It
- Conservation Genetics: Genetic Variability, Gene Flow, and Adaptation
- Conservation Status Assessment: Red Lists, Risk Assessment, and Species Prioritization
- Threats to Biodiversity: Habitat Destruction, Climate Change, Invasive Species, and Pollution
- Conservation Strategies: Protected Areas, Ecological Restoration and management of endangered species.
- Environmental policies and legislation: International agreements, national laws and regulations.
‘
Career opportunities
- Academic Researcher: Design and execution of research projects, publication of scientific articles, university teaching.
- Environmental Consultant: Environmental impact assessment, design of conservation plans, advising on environmental policies.
- Natural Resource Manager: Planning and management of protected areas, management of wildlife, control of invasive species.
- Laboratory Technician: Analysis of biological samples, identification of species, DNA sequencing.
- Environmental Educator: Design and delivery of educational programs on biodiversity, scientific outreach.
- Work in NGOs: Participation in conservation projects, community development, policy advocacy.
- Government Agencies: Implementation of biodiversity policies, monitoring compliance with environmental legislation.
- Companies in Biotechnology: Research and development of products and services based on biodiversity.
“`
Admission requirements
Academic/professional profile:
Degree/Bachelor's degree in Nautical Science/Maritime Transport, Naval/Marine Engineering, or a related field; or proven professional experience in bridge/operations.
Language proficiency:
Recommended functional maritime English (SMCP) for simulations and technical materials.
5. Induction
Updated resume, copy of degree or seaman's book, ID card/passport, letter of motivation.
Technical requirements (for online):
Equipment with camera/microphone, stable connection, ≥ 24” monitor recommended for ECDIS/Radar-ARPA.
Admission process and dates
1. Online
application
(form + documents).
2. Academic review and interview
(profile/objectives/schedule compatibility).
3. Admission decision
(+ scholarship proposal if applicable).
4. Reservation of place
(deposit) and registration.
5. Induction
(access to campus, calendars, simulator guides).
Scholarships and grants
- Discover Biodiversity: Learn research methodologies and data analysis for conservation.
- Field Techniques: Master sampling techniques, species identification, and environmental monitoring.
- Data Analysis: Use specialized software to analyze biodiversity data and generate accurate reports.
- Conservation: Contribute to the protection of ecosystems and the sustainable management of natural resources.
- Real-World Experience: Participate in applied research projects and gain valuable experience in the field.
Testimonials
During my training in biodiversity research, I led a project that identified five new species of endemic fungi in the Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve. The phylogenetic analysis and detailed morphological description of these species were published in a peer-reviewed scientific journal, contributing significantly to the knowledge of the region’s fungi and to the conservation of this vital ecosystem.
I applied the knowledge I gained about species identification and marine ecosystem analysis to develop a coral reef conservation project, which was successfully implemented by a local NGO, resulting in a 20% increase in coral cover in one year.
During my training in biodiversity research, I led a project that identified five new species of beetles in the Ecuadorian Amazon rainforest, contributing significantly to the knowledge of the regional entomofauna and publishing the findings in a renowned scientific journal.
During my training in biodiversity research, I led a project that identified five new species of endemic fungi in the Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve. These findings were published in a renowned scientific journal and contributed to the understanding of the region’s fungal richness, influencing local conservation strategies.
Frequently asked questions
The variety of life on Earth, including all living organisms, their genetic differences, and the ecosystems they form.
Yes. The itinerary includes ECDIS/Radar-ARPA/BRM with harbor, ocean, fog, storm, and SAR scenarios.
Online with live sessions; hybrid option for simulator/practical placements through agreements.
To document and understand the variety of life on Earth in order to conserve it.
Recommended functional SMCP. We offer support materials for standard phraseology.
Yes, with a relevant degree or experience in maritime/port operations. The admissions interview will confirm suitability.
Optional (3–6 months) through Companies & Collaborations and the Alumni Network.
Simulator practice (rubrics), defeat plans, SOPs, checklists, micro-tests and applied TFM.
A degree from Navalis Magna University + operational portfolio (tracks, SOPs, reports and KPIs) useful for audits and employment.
- Introduction to Biodiversity: Key Concepts, Scales, and Patterns
- Biodiversity Inventory: Sampling Methods, Identification, and Recording of Species
- Analysis of Biodiversity Data: Metrics of Diversity, Relative Abundance, and Species Distribution
- Population and Community Ecology: Biotic Interactions and Environmental Factors
- Biogeography: Species Distribution and Factors that Determine It
- Conservation Genetics: Genetic Variability, Gene Flow, and Adaptation
- Conservation Status Assessment: Red Lists, Risk Assessment, and Species Prioritization
- Threats to Biodiversity: Habitat Destruction, Climate Change, Invasive Species, and Pollution
- Conservation Strategies: Protected Areas, Ecological Restoration and management of endangered species.
- Environmental policies and legislation: International agreements, national laws and regulations.
‘
Request information
- Complete the Application Form
- Attach your CV/Qualifications (if you have them to hand).
- Indicate your preferred cohort (January/May/September) and whether you want the hybrid option with simulator sessions.
Teachers
Eng. Tomás Riera
Full Professor
Eng. Tomás Riera
Full Professor
Naval engineer specializing in the selection, integration, and optimization of propulsion systems for yachts, high-speed craft, and service vessels.
Eng. Sofía Marquina
Full Professor
Eng. Sofía Marquina
Full Professor
Materials engineer specializing in marine composites and corrosion protection systems for ships, yachts, and port structures.
Eng. Javier Bañuls
Full Professor
Eng. Javier Bañuls
Full Professor
Naval electrical engineer with over fifteen years of experience in the design, integration, and operation of power and automation systems.
Dr. Nuria Llobregat
Full Professor
Dr. Nuria Llobregat
Full Professor
Specialist in meteorological and operational decision-making for coastal and offshore navigation, integrating wind, wave, and current models.
Dr. Pau Ferrer
Full Professor
Dr. Pau Ferrer
Full Professor
Naval engineer with a PhD in applied hydrodynamics and over a decade of experience designing high-performance hulls and marine structures.
Cap. Javier Abaroa (MCA)
Full Professor
Cap. Javier Abaroa (MCA)
Full Professor
MCA-certified captain with command of ocean-going vessels, specializing in advanced maneuvering, navigation management, and bridge safety.