Dr Maria J. Espona Joins the Association of Innovative Educational Research (AIER)

Cyberjaya, Malaysia –2 January 2025 — The Association of Innovative Educational Research (AIER) proudly announces the appointment of Dr. Maria J. Espona, a distinguished biologist and researcher, to its esteemed network of experts. 

Dr. Espona brings decades of experience in biological sciences, global security, and education to AIER, furthering the organisation's mission to foster innovative educational research and practice approaches.

Dr. Espona’s impressive career spans academia, international policy, and research. With a Master's in Terrorism Studies and a PhD in Criminology, she currently conducts postdoctoral research at the University of Liège, focusing on biological weapons and disease surveillance within the One Health framework.

As an educator, she has taught in universities across Argentina, Georgia, and Peru, specialising in Information Quality, CBRN export control, and the responsible use of dual-use data. Her leadership extends to serving as South America's EU P2P Regional Coordinator and contributing to global biorisk management and sustainability initiatives. She also plays a critical advisory role as a WHO Technical Advisory Group member on the Responsible Use of the Life Sciences and Dual-Use Research (TAG-RULS DUR).

In addition, Dr. Espona directs ArgIQ (Argentina Information Quality), a leading organisation dedicated to advancing information quality standards in Latin America. Her appointment aligns seamlessly with AIER's goal of integrating innovative research with real-world impact, particularly in addressing global education and knowledge-sharing challenges.

“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Espona to AIER,” said AIER President Olivia Tan. “Her unparalleled expertise in global health, security, and education innovation will be instrumental in advancing our vision for educational research and its transformative potential.”

Dr. Espona shared her excitement about joining AIER: "I am honoured to collaborate with an organisation committed to redefining education through research and innovation. I look forward to contributing my knowledge and experience to AIER's groundbreaking initiatives."