Dr. Jones Napaldet | Plant Biology | Best Researcher Award
Associate Professor | Benguet State University | Philippines
Jones T. Napaldet serves as an Associate Professor V in the Biology Department at the College of Natural Sciences (CNS) at Benguet State University (BSU). His academic journey and professional endeavors are a testament to his profound commitment to the fields of plant ecology and environmental science. With a career spanning over a decade, Jones has become a pivotal figure in the study of tropical forests and ecological systems in the Philippines. His role at BSU is characterized by a dual focus on high-quality education and impactful research. As an Associate Professor V, he not only imparts knowledge to his students but also spearheads significant research initiatives that address pressing environmental issues. Jones’s work is marked by a dedication to advancing scientific understanding and fostering sustainable practices within his community and beyond. His position at BSU enables him to bridge the gap between academic research and practical application, ensuring that his contributions to the field have tangible benefits for environmental management and conservation efforts. Through his leadership in research projects and his involvement in various academic committees, Jones has established himself as a respected scholar and educator. His commitment to excellence in both teaching and research has earned him recognition and respect within the academic community.
Profile
Education
Jones T. Napaldet’s educational background is distinguished by his achievements in environmental science and biology. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science (BSES) from Benguet State University in 2008, graduating magna cum laude. This foundational degree provided him with a robust understanding of environmental systems and the importance of conservation. Following his undergraduate studies, Jones pursued further education to deepen his expertise in the biological sciences. In 2013, he completed his Master of Science in Biology, also at Benguet State University, where he honed his skills in research and developed a specialization in plant ecology. His academic journey culminated in 2019 with a Doctorate in Botany, majoring in Plant Ecology, from the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB). This advanced degree allowed him to explore complex ecological concepts and contribute original research to the field. His doctoral research focused on the intricate interactions between plant species and their environments, providing valuable insights into ecosystem dynamics and biodiversity. The combination of his undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral studies has equipped Jones with a comprehensive understanding of environmental science and plant ecology, enabling him to conduct influential research and contribute to the academic community.
Experience
Jones T. Napaldet’s professional experience is marked by a series of roles that reflect his expertise and commitment to environmental science and education. Since 2024, he has served as an Associate Professor V in the Biology Department at Benguet State University, where he teaches and mentors students while leading research initiatives. His role involves not only delivering lectures and guiding research projects but also contributing to the academic development of the department. Prior to his current position, Jones held several notable roles that showcased his leadership and research capabilities. From 2014 to the present, he has been a Study Leader and Project Leader for various research studies at the Institute of Social Research and Development (ISRD), the College of Social Sciences and the College of Arts and Sciences at BSU. These roles involved overseeing research projects, managing teams, and ensuring the successful completion of studies related to environmental science and plant ecology. Additionally, Jones served as the College Secretary at the College of Arts and Sciences, Benguet State University, from November 17, 2014, to July 31, 2015. In this capacity, he was responsible for administrative tasks and supporting the college’s academic programs. His earlier roles included being an Environmental Science Instructor 1 at the Department of Biology, CAS, BSU from June 6, 2011, to 2017, where he taught courses and conducted research. He also worked as a Research Assistant for the Institute of Social Research and Development (ISRD) and the Fish-Shell Project at BSU from April 15, 2010, to June 2011 and from July 1, 2008, to March 2010. These roles provided him with hands-on experience in research and fieldwork. Jones’s diverse experience in teaching, research, and administration has significantly contributed to his expertise and influence in the field of environmental science.
Research Interests
Jones T. Napaldet’s research interests are centered on plant ecology, biodiversity, and environmental sustainability. His work explores the intricate relationships between plant species, their habitats, and the impacts of human activities on these ecosystems. One of his primary research interests is understanding how human disturbance affects floral diversity in tropical forests. This includes investigating the effects of deforestation, land use changes, and other anthropogenic factors on plant communities and ecosystem health. Jones is also deeply engaged in studying the interplay between soil properties, elevation, and plant diversity in riparian ecosystems. His research aims to unravel how these factors influence plant communities and contribute to ecosystem resilience. Additionally, Jones is involved in documenting traditional knowledge related to indigenous herbs and traditional healing practices. This aspect of his research seeks to preserve and promote the use of traditional ecological knowledge while also exploring its relevance to modern environmental and health practices. Through his research, Jones aims to contribute to the broader understanding of ecological systems and support efforts to enhance environmental conservation and sustainability.
Awards
Jones T. Napaldet’s academic and professional achievements have been recognized through various awards and honors. Notably, he graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science from Benguet State University in 2008. This distinction reflects his exceptional academic performance and dedication to his studies. The magna cum laude honor is a testament to his commitment to excellence and his strong foundation in environmental science. His educational accomplishments have provided him with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in his research and teaching roles. While his educational achievements are particularly noteworthy, Jones’s contributions to his field have also been recognized through various research grants and project funding. His ongoing research projects, such as those focused on environmental studies and floral diversity, have garnered support from funding agencies and academic institutions. These awards and recognitions underscore his impact on the field of environmental science and his commitment to advancing knowledge and addressing environmental challenges.
Publications
Jones T. Napaldet has contributed extensively to the scientific literature through a range of publications in esteemed journals. His research has been featured in several high-impact journals, reflecting the significance of his work in the field of environmental science and plant ecology. Some of his notable publications include:
Development of endemicity and conservation importance indices for tropical forests and the floral diversity assessment of Mt. Natoo in Benguet, Philippines
Bullong JRT, Silverio JP, Alafag JI, Guron MA, Napaldet JT
Mountain Journal of Science, March 2024
Plant species and ecosystem diversity along national road in mountain sites: The case of Kennon Road in Cordillera Central Range, Philippines
Napaldet JT
Taiwania, October 2023
Intensities of human disturbance dictate the floral diversity in tropical forest: the case of a secondary forest in Benguet, Philippines
DA Balangen, MS Catones, JM Bayeng, JT Napaldet
Mountain Journal of Science, June 2023
Mosaic interplay of floral diversity, soil properties, disturbance intensity and elevation in the riparian ecosystem under semi‑subsistence agriculture of Cordillera Central Range, Northern Philippines
MM Dulnuan, JT Napaldet
Aquatic Ecology, June 2023
Taxonomic and Ecological Notes on Gaultheria cumingiana S.Vidal (Ericaceae) from the Cordillera Central Range, Northern Philippines
Joanna I. Alafag, Jones T. Napaldet
Taiwania, 2022
Boesenbergia igorota (Zingiberaceae), a new species from the Cordillera Central Range, Northern Philippines
Rene Vincent B. Tad-o, Joanna I. Alafag, Jones T. Napaldet
Taiwania, 2022
Floral diversity of Intek River in Tuba, Benguet, Northern Philippines
Domelson A. Balangen, Melchor S. Catones, Jane M. Bayeng, Jones T. Napaldet
Journal of Wetlands Biodiversity, 2021
Lead and mercury uptake in dominant macrophytes of Balili River, Benguet, Philippines
Jones T. Napaldet, Inocencio E. Buot Jr.
Journal of Wetlands Biodiversity, 2020
Vascular plant diversity in Benguet State University La Trinidad Main Campus, Philippines: A status report and a database to support the attainment of sustainable development
Jhunedy M. Antonio, Margarette M. Bacate, Jackson L. Butag, Sheinalene M. Ladoan, Gina D. Vicente, Jones T. Napaldet
Journal of Wetlands Biodiversity, 2020
Distribution and morpho-anatomical characterization of ‘Beket’ (Coriaria japonica subsp. intermedia (Matsum) T. C. Huanh) in Cordillera Central Range, Northern Philippines
Maricel A. Guron, Jones T. Napaldet
Journal of Mountain Science,