Professor Annette Junio-Menez

Marine Ecologist, Marine Science Institute, University of the Philippines

Annette is an educator and a well-published marine ecologist and coastal resources management specialist. She has been involved in international and multi-sectoral dialogues on biodiversity conservation, marine scientific research and engaged in efforts aligned with the development of an inclusive and sustainable blue economy in the Philippines.

Annette’s core skills include mentoring students and marine science researchers, framework development and proof of concept of resources management innovations, multi-sector stakeholder analysis and participatory action research.

In 1991 Annette received a PhD. In Biological Sciences from the University of Rhode Island USA. She obtained both her Master’s of Science in Marine Biology and Bachelor of Science from the University of the Philippines in Diliman.

Annette is an Academician of the National Academy of Science & Technology of the Philippines, Professor and previous Director of the Marine Science Institute at the University of the Philippines. She has received recognition and various national and University awards for her research and development work. Among her major contributions to the advancement of marine sciences are studies on marine invertebrate ecology and marine aquaculture, and pioneering interdisciplinary research on biophysical and genetic connectivity of reef associated organisms and its applications to environmental governance, fisheries and marine protected area management in the Philippines.

She takes every opportunity to travel with her husband and son, go on nature trips -especially near or in the ocean.  Having to stay home because of the pandemic, Annette has discovered the joys of gardening and relaxation by watching Netflix series and movies.