Our Team
Amazon Nexus is supported by a highly qualified, multidisciplinary team formed through a Technical and Scientific Cooperation Agreement between Amazon Emotions and CENBAM – The Amazonian Biodiversity Studies Centre.
This partnership brings together leading Amazonian researchers, experienced field scientists and conservation specialists with decades of expertise in biodiversity research, ecosystem monitoring and applied conservation. United by a shared vision, the team combines scientific rigor with practical knowledge of the Amazon, ensuring that all initiatives developed under Amazon Nexus are grounded in credible research, ethical field practices and long-term conservation impact.
Through this collaboration, Amazon Nexus establishes a strong scientific foundation that enables the creation of research stations, conservation programs and immersive experiences that connect science, nature and society, transforming knowledge into action and engagement into lasting legacy.
PROJECT LEADERS
Dr. William Ernest Magnusson is a senior researcher at INPA since 1979 and a CNPq Productivity Fellow (Level 1A), with nearly 200 scientific publications. He is a leading reference in multidisciplinary research design, a member of international scientific boards, part of the IUCN Crocodile Specialist Group, and assistant coordinator of the Western Amazon PPBio Program.
Dr. Albertina Pimentel Lima is a senior researcher at INPA since 1989, specializing in vertebrate ecology, with a strong focus on amphibian ecology and biogeography. A CNPq Productivity Fellow (Level 1C), she has published over 100 scientific papers, coordinated international research projects across the Amazon, and served as coordinator of INPA’s Graduate Program in Ecology.
She is an ecologist at INPA’s Biodiversity Coordination (COBIO), supervising graduate students and conducting research on how human and climate pressures affect Amazonian biodiversity, with a focus on science-based solutions for sustainable resource management.
FIELD RESEARCHERS & SUPPORTERS
Amanda Araujo Bernardes is a biologist, she leads participatory science experiences during Amazon Emotions expeditions. She holds a postgraduate degree in Ecology from INPA and specializes in the ecology of small mammals, using methods such as camera traps and bioacoustics.
Through her work, Amanda bridges science and tourism, inspiring visitors to connect with the rainforest and support conservation.
Vanessa is a passionate nature advocate with over 28 years of experience spanning conservation and tourism, and the founder of the Amazon Emotions tour operator. Her work reflects a deep commitment to sustainability, responsible adventure and a lifelong connection to the Amazon rainforest. Over the years, Vanessa has worked closely with biologists, researchers, and local and international partners to develop new strategies for nature conservation, giving rise to the Amazon Nexus initiative.