Fostering collaboration across sectors to enhance our understanding of ecological systems, Dr. Fitsum Abadi Gebreselassie is an Associate Professor in the Department of Fish, Wildlife, and Conservation Ecology at New Mexico State University. With a robust academic foundation, he earned his PhD from the University of Bern in Switzerland, where he honed his expertise in statistical ecology. His research is particularly focused on the development and application of capture-recapture models, integrated population models, occupancy models, and Bayesian inference, all of which are crucial for advancing ecological studies. Before joining New Mexico State University, Dr. Gebreselassie served as a lecturer at the University of the Witwatersrand in South Africa. This role allowed him to cultivate a diverse teaching portfolio and engage with a wide array of ecological challenges in different environmental contexts. His international experience enriches his current teaching and research endeavors, providing a global perspective to his work and students. At New Mexico State University, Dr. Gebreselassie is committed to teaching and mentoring students in quantitative courses such as population ecology and ecological biometry. His courses are designed to equip students with the necessary skills to analyze complex ecological data and contribute to the field of conservation ecology. Through his teaching, he emphasizes the importance of statistical methods in understanding population dynamics and ecological patterns. Dr. Gebreselassie's research interests are deeply rooted in population ecology and statistical ecology. He is particularly passionate about using Bayesian inference to improve the accuracy and reliability of ecological models. His work on occupancy models and integrated population models has contributed significantly to the field, offering new insights into species distribution and population trends. In addition to his academic pursuits, Dr. Gebreselassie is actively involved in collaborative research projects that aim to address pressing ecological issues. By working with fellow researchers, conservationists, and policymakers, he strives to develop innovative solutions that promote biodiversity and sustainable resource management. Dr. Gebreselassie's dedication to advancing ecological science and education is evident in his ongoing efforts to bridge the gap between theoretical research and practical applications. His contributions to the field continue to inspire students and colleagues alike, fostering a deeper understanding of the intricate relationships within ecological systems.