João Pedro Marques is a Postdoctoral Researcher in Evolutionary Genomics with the EVOCHANGE group at Associação BIOPOLIS, Portugal. His background includes a PhD in Biodiversity, Genetics, and Evolution from the University of Porto (co-awarded by Université de Montpellier, 2022), an MSc in Biochemistry specializing in Biomolecular Methods, and a BSc in Biochemistry from Universidade de Aveiro. Since 2014, João’s research has focused on speciation and population genetics, employing genome assembly, SNP calling, and annotation to address evolutionary questions across hares, mice, and other taxa. Research and Academic Metrics: 19 peer-reviewed articles across journals like Molecular Ecology and Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. Organized 4 scientific events, including the 7th International Mouse Meeting and the Genome Applications Symposium (BGE-ERGA). Co-supervised 2 PhD and 1 MSc student(s), supervised 1 MSc, and guided 2 undergraduate students. Key Scientific Contributions: Led projects using whole-genome sequencing to study divergence, gene flow, and adaptation in ecological contact zones, with a focus on hybridization and local adaptation. Pioneered approaches in population genomics and transcriptomics, utilizing high-throughput sequencing to generate insights into evolutionary dynamics under climate change. Developed frameworks contributing to conservation efforts and One Health monitoring through genomic surveillance. Professional and outreach engagement: Established an ongoing outreach program with a local high school, guiding students in genomics and wildlife health projects. Serves on committees within ERGA, focusing on data analysis and sequencing strategies. Actively collaborates with institutions across Europe and the USA, such as U. Montpellier and U. Montana. Presented at key international forums, including the World Lagomorph Conference and the World Biodiversity Forum. João’s expertise in evolutionary genomics and conservation genomics uniquely equips him to advance ecosystem health monitoring, aligning with sustainable wildlife disease management and biodiversity preservation.