She holds a B.Sc. in Environmental Sciences and an M.Sc. in Fisheries Management and Aquaculture from the University of Cádiz. Additionally, she earned her Ph.D. in Biodiversity and Natural Resources from the University of Oviedo, where she gained extensive experience in fisheries management research and the protection of Vulnerable Marine Ecosystems, such as coral reefs.

Throughout her doctoral studies, Virginia authored several articles describing new coral species and honed her skills in benthic ecology and ecosystem management. Before pursuing her Ph.D., she worked as a technician at the Spanish Oceanographic Institute, conducting sea-based research and gaining practical experience in fisheries stock assessments. She notably contributed to the Spanish National Basic Plan of Data, collecting and evaluating fishing data in the ICES and CECAF areas. During this period, she conducted feeding habit and age/size studies on various commercial species (including hake, anchovy, sharks, mackerel, and squid) to promote an ecosystem-based approach to commercial fisheries in the Gulf of Cádiz and the Strait of Gibraltar.

With large background on marine ecosystems, over the last ten years she has worked on Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) fisheries assessments with primary responsibilities for Principle 2 (P2), lead assessor and Traceability. 

Virginia brings extensive expertise to MSC assessments, having served as both a team member and lead assessor on numerous full assessments. Her experience includes work on ISF Capelin, ISF Mackerel, CSHMAC herring, Cantabrian sardine, North Atlantic albacore, squat lobster, blue sharks, swordfish, and Chilean Austral hake and many tuna fisheries.

With her profound knowledge and hands-on experience, Dr. Polonio is instrumental in driving Vekamar’s mission to promote sustainable fisheries and environmental stewardship.