Education PhD in Molecular Genetics and Evolutionary Biology, The University of New México 2005 Dissertation: Evolution of the Major Histocompatibility Complex in Cetaceans Master in Science: Coastal Oceanography. The Autonomous University of Baja California, 1993 Dissertation: Behavioral ecology of Bryde’s Whales at the Gulf of California Background overview and objectives I pioneered Molecular Ecology and Conservation Genetics in Baja California Sur, and founded the Molecular Ecology and Conservation Genetics Laboratory at the University of Baja California Sur in the2000. The main objective of our laboratory is to acquire fundamental knowledge on evolutionary processes that generate and maintain genetic diversity within and among populations. This knowledge aims to enhance the long-term economic viability and social value of aquatic vertebrates in three domains: recreational and commercial fisheries, biodiversity conservation, and aquaculture. Research projects at our laboratory are distinguished by an integrative approach that combines quantitative and functional genetics, population genetics, bioinformatics, and ecology. This diversity addresses current issues in fisheries, aquaculture, and biodiversity conservation, which are often seen as distinct fields with few common links. We promote the view that these sectors face a common problem: genetic erosion and incomplete knowledge of the processes that generate and maintain genetic diversity.