RESEARCH
My research intersects policy, environmental transformation, human rights, and indigenous governance, with a scholarly focus on political ecology, adaptation, urban ecology, climate mobility, and marine conservation. Notably, my work incorporates gender considerations and environmental justice into these broader themes. I have been published in peer-reviewed journals such as "Ecology and Society," and my contributions have garnered multiple research fellowships and academic accolades. Fluent in English, Spanish, and French, I am a CITI-certified social/behavioral researcher and have conducted multidisciplinary studies across Latin America, North America, and Europe, employing co-participatory research methodologies to engage marginalized communities effectively. I also hold a PADI Open Water Diver certification, adding an immersive dimension to my marine research endeavors.
Gender and Marine Conservation
The study highlights the crucial role of gender equity and collaborative care in Madagascar's marine conservation. It advocates for inclusive governance to improve the effectiveness of locally managed marine areas (LMMAs).
Baker-Médard, M., Rakotondrazafy, V., Randriamihaja, M., Ratsimbazafy, P., & Juarez-Serna, I. M. (2021). Gender Equity and Collaborative Care in Madagascar’s Locally Managed Marine Areas. Ecology and Society: Special Issue.
Presented at IMPAC5 - Vancouver BC Canada (2023)
The Political Ecology of the Avocado Agribusiness
This research examines the socio-ecological impacts and power dynamics of Michoacán's avocado industry, revealing critical issues of cartel involvement and environmental degradation. Two contrasting case studies highlight the urgency for democratic agrarian policies that prioritize sustainability and community well-being.
Developing the visual investigation with Documentary Campus.
Indigenous Sovereignty
and Environmental Governance in Mexico
Conducted scholarly field research examining the political strategies and movement building that facilitated the indigenous town of Cherán's successful declaration of autonomy from the Mexican government in 2011.
The research project evolved into a documentary, "Enraizados," produced in partnership with The Redford Center.
Indigenous Participation in International
Environmental Politics
Our study in Environmental Politics Journal scrutinizes the barriers hindering indigenous and local participation in international conservation efforts, shedding light on post-colonial dynamics. The research calls for reconfiguring these relationships to foster genuine collaboration.
Fuentes-George, K., & Juarez-Serna, I. M. Observers or Participants?: Post-Colonial Barriers between International Conservation Institutions and Indigenous and Local Participation. Environmental Politics Journal: Special Issue.
Presented at ISA 2023 Annual Convention, Montreal (2023).
Evaluating Marine Conservation Opportunities in LATAM and the Pacific
Conducted a comprehensive analysis of potential expedition sites for National Geographic's Pristine Seas project, focusing on Latin America and the Pacific. The research encompassed governmental policies, economic indicators, environmental conditions, and demographic data, as well as the identification of compelling media narratives. Findings were presented to the senior team at National Geographic Pristine Seas in 2022.
Climate Mobility
This independent project explores the intersection of climate mobility, adaptation, and urban ecology in Latin America. It examines how climate change drives population displacement and migration, focusing on the challenges and opportunities for urban areas to adapt and integrate climate migrants. The research aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of how urban ecosystems can be designed to support sustainable, resilient communities in the face of climate-induced mobility.
Here you will find a collection of my scholarly works, including research articles, book chapters, and investigative reports. For other forms of public scholarship, such as documentary films, please visit the "media and film" page. You can also email me at ivonnemserna@gmail.com to receive a copy of any of the works listed below. Thank you for your interest in my work.
Peer-Reviewed Articles
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Baker-Médard, M., Rakotondrazafy, V., Randriamihaja, M., Ratsimbazafy, P., & Juarez-Serna, I. M. (2021). "Gender Equity and Collaborative Care in Madagascar’s Locally Managed Marine Areas." Published in Ecology and Society: Special Issue.
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Fuentes-George, K., & Juarez-Serna, I. M. "Observers or Participants?: Post-Colonial Barriers between International Conservation Institutions and Indigenous and Local Participation." Published in Environmental Politics Journal: Special Issue.
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Fuentes-George, K., & Juarez-Serna, I. M. "Climate Change and International Relations: Indigenous Participation in International Environmental Law." Chapter 4, Expected in Climate Change and International Relations by Edward Elgar Press, 2024.
Book Chapters
Academic Thesis
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Juarez-Serna, I. M. "Green Gold: The Political Ecology of the Avocado Agribusiness in Mexico". Undergraduate Thesis, Middlebury College, 2023.
Investigative Reports
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Nithart, C., Bonnemains, J., Guilissen, G., Crépeau-Pons, E., Edin, J-P., Contant, L., Poirault, C., Torres Márquez, I., Bossard, C., Colasse, L., Malassis, O., Juarez-Serna, I., & des Bois, R. (2022). "A la Trace" Published by Association de protection de l’Homme et de l’environnement, supported by Fondation Brigitte Bardot, Fondation Franz Weber, and Ministère de la transition écologique et solidaire, France.
FELLOWSHIPS
& GRANTS
2022-2023: Rohatyn Global Fellowship, Rohatyn Center for Global Affairs
2022-2023: Kellogg Research Fellowship, Middlebury College, Kellogg Foundation – $5,000 USD
2021-2023: BOLD Women's Leadership Fellowship, Helen G. Brown Foundation – $40,000 USD
2024: Grantee, BIPOC Women Climate Solutions Program, The Redford Center – $32,682 USD
2024: Grantee, The Miller Packan Documentary Fund, The Rogovy Foundation – $15,000 USD
2023: Scott A. Margolin ’99 Environmental Studies Award, Middlebury College
2023: Masterschool Selection “Green Gold,” Documentary Campus, Creative Europe – €8,000 EUR
2019-2023: Davis United World College Scholarship, Davis UWC Scholars Program – $80,000 USD
2019-2023: College Scholar’s List, Middlebury College
2019-2023: Yordan Family Scholarship, The Jordan Family Foundation – $77,480 USD
2016-2018: UWC Mexico Scholarship, Lester B. Pearson United World College – $95,000 CAD