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State of Biodiversity 2026

9th Annual State of Biodiversity Symposium.

From Exploration to Conservation

Every year, we host an annual State of Biodiversity Symposium, bringing together scientists, conservationists, and nature lovers to discuss biodiversity in our region and how we can continue to preserve it.

For our 9th Annual State of Biodiversity Symposium we celebrated transnational and multidisciplinary expeditions past, present, and future. We invited people of the Californias to use wonder, science, and exploration to exchange ideas and create conservation solutions through multinational and interdisciplinary research.

Check out what symposium-goers selected as priority locations for future expeditions!

Event details:

  • Date: Tuesday, April 9, 2026
  • Time: 5–9 PM
  • Where: The San Diego Natural History Museum

Agenda:

  • Reception with appetizers and pay bar
  • Outreach tables from local organizations
  • Presentations and discussion about multidisciplinary expeditions
  • Several exhibitions will be open to guests and will include a special viewing of specimens and findings from past Museum expeditions. You'll also have the chance to participate in a community feedback activity to help us identify priority locations for future expeditions.

Speakers and topics:

Adrian Munguia-Vega

Applied Genomics Lab, Founder and Director.
University of Arizona, Researcher

Topic: Exploring kelp forest biodiversity using environmental DNA and deep-sea cameras along the coast of Southern California and the Baja California Peninsula.

Adrian is a marine biologist and population geneticist who uses genetic and genomic tools to understand and conserve biodiversity. An avid explorer, he has participated in over 30 ocean science expeditions.


Sula Vanderplank

SUVA Research, Director and Lead Scientist

Topic: Redefining expeditions through inclusive and impact-driven exploration in the Baja California Peninsula.

Sula is a researcher and explorer of the Californias who has been working in the U.S.-Mexico borderlands and the Baja California Peninsula (including the adjacent islands) for the past 21 years. Her interests include botany, species conservation, and expeditions.


Francisco Bassó Medel

Bugologist / Bichólogo

Topic: Demystifying wildlife through bilingual outreach on both sides of the U.S-Mexico border.

Francisco is a wildlife and conservation biologist that focuses on science communication, education, and accessibility. His work focuses on bringing attention to the underrepresented and commonly feared native wildlife that is often understudied and underappreciated.