Poster Title: Microplastics to Macroinvertebrates: Assessing the Health of Freshwater Ecosystems in the Streams and Rivers of Thimphu, Bhutan
Mr. Ugyen Dorji is a freshwater ecologist with extensive expertise in the conservation of freshwater fauna and flora. Currently serving as the Dean of Student Affaris at the College of Natural Resources, Royal University of Bhutan, he is an Editor for theΒ Bhutan Journal of Natural Resources and Development and he was also the Programme Leader for the MSc in Natural Resources Management (HDR). His research interests include freshwater biodiversity, aquatic ecosystems, and the impacts of anthropogenic activities on freshwater habitats. Over the years, he has successfully led numerous research projects, including molecular analysis of aquatic species, climate change impacts on water sources, and macroinvertebrate diversity studies. He is also a co-founder of Water Research Bhutan and has served as a National Consultant for various hydropower and ecological impact assessments. With proficiency in GIS software, R, SPSS, and statistical modeling tools, Mr. Ugyen Dorji is a skilled educator and mentor, having facilitated over 60 capacity-building programs for both national and international participants. His contributions extend to policy-making as a member of the National Technical Working Group on water resource management in Bhutan. Mr. Ugyen Dorji is an accomplished researcher with numerous peer-reviewed publications on freshwater ecology, biodiversity, and climate change impacts. His current projects focus on addressing river pollution and enhancing ecosystem services in the Hindu Kush region.