Interview with Dr. Maria de Lourdes Ramirez Ahuja—Winner of the Insects Young Investigator Award

1. Could you briefly introduce yourself and your research background?
My name is María de Lourdes Ramírez Ahuja, and I am a Mexican researcher working in entomology. My research background is mainly in insect taxonomy, with a special focus on Hymenoptera. Over the years, I have worked on the study, identification, and classification of insect groups, as well as their diversity and biological relevance. I am very interested in understanding insect biodiversity and contributing to the knowledge of these important organisms.

2. What motivated you to pursue research in your current field?
This interest began in my childhood, with fireflies. My family used to live in an area of Oaxaca, Mexico, where there was no electricity, so at night it was a spectacle to see thousands of fireflies. Later I became interested in butterflies, and later still in parasitoid wasps when I discovered their role as natural enemies of other insects, specifically some pests. I have always been fascinated by the diversity of insects and by how much there is still to discover about them. Taxonomy is essential because it helps us understand biodiversity, ecological interactions, and species of economic or environmental importance. What motivated me most was the opportunity to contribute knowledge about insect groups that are still understudied and to support a better understanding of their role in nature.

3. Could you describe the main focus of your recent work?
My recent work has focused on insect taxonomy, particularly on Hymenoptera, including the study of species diversity, identification, and classification. My work contributes to identifying natural enemies of various pest species of agricultural, forestry and medical importance so that these species can be used in biological control programs in the future.
Another line of research is linked to the native bees of Mexico, since these species are at risk of extinction due to various factors. We want to get to know them better in order to propose conservation strategies and help these important pollinators.

4. What do you consider your most significant research achievement so far?
One of my most meaningful achievements has been contributing to the study and recognition of insect diversity through taxonomic (morphological and molecular) research. For me, this is especially important because taxonomy provides the basis for many other scientific questions in ecology, evolution, and applied entomology. I also consider it very meaningful to have built a research path that contributes to science in Mexico and to the international entomological community.

5. What challenges have you encountered in your research, and how did you address them?
One important challenge in taxonomy is that it requires a great deal of detailed observation, careful comparison, and strong knowledge of the literature. In some cases, access to specimens, reference material, or specialized resources can also be limited. I have addressed these challenges through careful work, continuous learning, collaboration with colleagues, and a strong commitment to scientific rigor. I believe patience and consistency are especially important in this field.

6. What are your current or upcoming research projects?
At present, I continue working on research related to insect taxonomy and biodiversity, particularly in Hymenoptera. My upcoming projects are aimed at deepening our knowledge of species diversity and improving the taxonomic information available for these groups.
In the future, I would like to see more biological pest control programs implemented in my country, using parasitoid wasps, as this would reduce the indiscriminate use of insecticides. With our research on native bees, I want our working group to be among the first to propose conservation strategies and safeguard these vital species.

7. How do you feel about receiving this award?
I feel very honored. I honestly didn’t expect it. I thank the entire Insects team and all the evaluators for this award. I believe an award of this magnitude means you’re on the right track and inspires you to keep working.
Receiving this award is especially important to me as a Mexican researcher, and I hope it can also inspire other scientists, especially young researchers, to continue pursuing their goals with dedication and passion.

8. Do you have any advice for early career researchers?
I would tell them that they must remain curious, consistent, and disciplined. Of course, there will always be difficulties, as in everything, but if they have a clear vision of what they want, nothing can stop them from achieving it. Research takes time, and progress is often built step by step. I would also encourage early career researchers to ask questions, seek good mentors, collaborate with others, and trust the value of their work. Persistence is very important, especially during difficult moments.