José Manuel Nicolau Ibarra

My initial research topic dealt with ecohydrology of reclaimed-mined ecosystems. I identified the main erosion and hydrological processes, estimating runoff and sediment yield rates in the Utrillas field site. Then, I investigated the interactions between plant communities’ dynamics and such hydrological processes discovering the mechanisms why rill erosion affects to plants spatial pattern and regeneration, as well as the interactions between sheet overland flow and vegetation (TTRP model). Also plant-plant interactions –facilitation- were studied. I conducted this research over the years at the Pyrenean Institute of Ecology-CSIC, Experimental Station of Aula Dei-CSIC, Oxford Brooks university, University of Alcalá and currently at the university of Zaragoza. We obtained a major conclusion from these ecohydrological findings: hydrology is a key driver for vegetation and soil development in these types of restored ecosystems in Mediterranean environments. So, the expert management of water must be the basis of any mining reclamation project. As the geomorphic reconstruction is the most influential action for runoff control, I decided to open a new research line on geomorphic restoration. I collaborate with Dr. Martín-Duque from the Universidad Complutense (UCM) carrying out numerous applied projects since 15 years ago. Our partners are mining companies (ENDESA, CEMEX…) and environmental agencies. Our projects are funded by the LIFE+ program (EU) or by private companies. Currently, we are leading this field at the international level. We have received an award from the UCM in recognition of our work transferring knowledge to the companies and administrations. In next year’s my objectives are: a) to develop a protocol for ecohydrological monitoring of mining-reclaimed landscapes and b) to design an ecological approach for revegetation of mined lands.
I spent three years at the Experimental Station of Arid Zones-CSIC and one more in the Geography department of the King´s College London working on desertification (1991-94). I was involved in setting up the Rambla Honda field site, monitoring runoff, sediments and the organic matter cycle as well as writing papers.
In 2010 I moved from Alcalá to Zaragoza University, where I have opened a new research line. It deals with degradation and recovery of Mediterranean-continental forests in the current situation of climatic change and rural depopulation. In cooperation with colleagues from the CIDE-CSIC and university of Alcalá we have studied the trajectories of degradation and recovery of holm oak forests along gradients of climate and land use looking for critical thresholds. Also I am developing an applied restoration project with the Forest Management Service of the Aragón government on a fired area. It is focused in the effects of reforestation on the water cycle (blue and green water budget). Since 2015 I am the head of the Ecological Restoration Research Team, officially recognized by the Aragón government. 14 scientists from the IPE-CSIC, EEAD-CSIC and University of Zaragoza take part of the group.
I teach at the university since 1995, sixteen years as full professor in Alcalá and Zaragoza universities. All my evaluations have been “outstanding-positives”. I have been in charge of matters as Ecology and Restoration Ecology in Biology and Environmental Sciences degrees. I have supervised more than 20 Final Degree Projects and 6 Master thesis. I have supervised 4 doctoral theses.