Matt Finer
About Matt Finer
Matt Finer is a Senior Research Specialist and Director of MAAP at the Amazon Conservation Association, where he has published over 130 high-impact reports on deforestation monitoring since 2013. He developed the MAAP system to provide near real-time data on deforestation threats in the Andean Amazon and collaborates with colleagues in Peru to enhance policy responses.
Work at Amazon Conservation
Matt Finer has been employed at the Amazon Conservation Association since 2013, serving as the Senior Research Specialist and Director of MAAP. In this role, he has focused on developing and implementing strategies to monitor deforestation in the Andean Amazon. His work involves collaborating with colleagues in Peru to enhance policy responses to environmental threats, particularly those posed by mining, logging, agriculture, and infrastructure development.
Education and Expertise
Matt Finer holds a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) from Washington State University, where he studied in the School of Biological Sciences from 1998 to 2003. He also earned a Bachelor's degree in Ecology and Evolution from the University of Pittsburgh, completing his studies there from 1993 to 1997. His educational background supports his extensive expertise in Amazon conservation, with over 15 years dedicated to addressing environmental issues in the region.
Background
Before joining the Amazon Conservation Association, Matt Finer worked in various research positions. He was a researcher at Archbold Biological Station for eight months in 1997-1998 and at Environment 2004 in 2004. Additionally, he served as a Research Specialist at the Center for International Environmental Law (CIEL) from 2011 to 2013. His diverse experience in ecological research has contributed to his current role in monitoring and addressing deforestation.
Achievements
Matt Finer has published over 130 high-impact public reports on critical issues such as Amazon fires and illegal gold mining. He launched the Monitoring of the Andean Amazon Project (MAAP) in 2015, which provides near real-time data on deforestation. His research has resulted in the publication of more than 90 reports focused on deforestation monitoring, significantly contributing to the understanding of environmental threats in the Andean Amazon.