
WDD Wisdom Speaker
CIFOR-ICRAF
Country Director & Chief of Party
Chandra Biradar
Scientist | Founder | Leader
Dr. Chandra Biradar is a seasoned landscape ecologist with over two decades of global experience in agroecosystem research and outreach, working across Asia, Africa, and the Americas. His multidisciplinary academic journey includes a BSc and MSc in Forestry—specializing in Tree Improvement, Genetic Resources, and Agroforestry—and a PhD in Environmental Sciences and Earth Observation Systems, with a focus on Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Conservation.
He has a deep passion for trees, agroforestry, and regenerative land use systems. Prior to joining CIFOR-ICRAF, Dr. Biradar held research and leadership roles at organizations including ICARDA, the University of New Hampshire, the University of Oklahoma, IWMI, and IIRS-ISRO.
Throughout his career, he has served as a principal scientist, unit head, and research team leader. He has authored more than 225 scientific publications, tools, and products, and has been recognized with multiple national and international awards for his contributions.
Dr. Biradar’s core research interests include applying cutting-edge technologies, integrating Indigenous knowledge, and promoting citizen science to restore and manage agroecosystems. His work aims to build ecologically sustainable and economically resilient landscapes that support both biodiversity and livelihoods, especially in vulnerable rural regions.