In a noteworthy accolade, Seafha Ramos, Principal Investigator of the Wildlife, Environmental Stewardship and Indigenous Peoples (WESIP) Lab at Northern Arizona University, has been named the Native American Fish and Wildlife Society’s 2026 Biologist of the Year. This honor highlights her innovative multidisciplinary approach to wildlife conservation and her commitment to integrating Indigenous knowledge with scientific research.
WESIP Lab’s Collaborative Approach
The WESIP Lab is recognized for its collaborative efforts with Indigenous communities and management agencies to advance wildlife research and conservation. By utilizing field, laboratory, and molecular ecology methods, the lab emphasizes community-driven engagement that respects Tribal sovereignty.
Among the significant projects underway, Master’s student Salix Scoresby is investigating the diet of the Sierra Nevada red fox in Oregon. Meanwhile, Ph.D. candidate Destiny Sanderson collaborates with the Hopi Tribe to study Kwaahu, or golden eagles, as part of a broader ecosystem management initiative.
Meaning of the Biologist of the Year Award
Ramos expressed that the award honors not only her contributions but also those of her students, community partners, and the support she receives from NAU. She noted, “Receiving this national level award from peers across Tribal fish and wildlife programs means the world to me.” The award letter acknowledged her work as a reflection of “strength, leadership, and dedication” in advancing Tribal stewardship. Ramos believes this recognition validates the importance of Indigenous environmental science.
Leveraging Recognition for Indigenous Stewardship
With this recognition, Ramos aims to highlight the unique skill set required in her field, which combines wildlife and molecular ecology with Indigenous research methodologies and federal Indian law. She emphasizes the necessity of preparing students for conservation careers that involve working with Tribal communities. NAU’s mission and location provide a platform to further these efforts.
Ramos hopes the visibility from the NAFWS Biologist of the Year award will attract the external funding and partnerships needed to expand their work. She looks forward to continued collaboration with partners and communities to enhance both conventional and Indigenous conservation science.
For more information, contact Jill Kimball at NAU Communications: (928) 523-2282 | jill.kimball@nau.edu
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