Our Team
Meet our multidisciplinary team of environmental experts, researchers, and consultants dedicated to sustainable development.
Core Team Members
Our dedicated team of full-time professionals who drive our day-to-day operations.
Dr. Akhanda Raj Upreti
Managing Director
PhD in Environmental Science and Engineering
Expertise
Key Achievements
- Senior Environmental Specialist for ADB
- Environmental Consultant for World Bank
Dr. Nirina Khadgi
Principal Advisor / Senior Environmental Specialist
PhD in Environmental Science and Engineering from Hohai University, China
Expertise
Key Achievements
- Green Talents Award 2018 (Germany)
- UN Women Projects
Dr. Sunit Palikhe
Hydropower Engineer and CFD Specialist
PhD in Water Conservancy and Hydropower Engineering
Expertise
Key Achievements
- Academic and Research Publications
- International Project Experience
Mr. Abhisek Bhattarai
Natural Resources Management Specialist
M.Sc., Sustainability Science
Expertise
Key Achievements
- Multiple field-based conservation projects
- Community engagement initiatives
Mrs. Prerana Shrestha
Natural Resources Management Associate
M.Sc., Natural Resources Management and Rural Development
Expertise
Key Achievements
- Rural community development projects
- Livelihood enhancement programs
Ms. Barsha Gautam
Chief Environmental Analyst / Outreach Manager
Master's of Science in Environmental Science (ongoing), Khwopa College, Bhaktapur
Expertise
Key Achievements
- WWF Nepal Scholar 2023/24
- Member of Nepal Forum of Science Journalists
Mr. Sijan Bista
Forestry Associate
B.Sc. Forestry
Expertise
Key Achievements
- Forest inventory projects
- Biodiversity assessment
Ms. Anisha Upreti
Accounts Officer
BBA
Expertise
Key Achievements
- Financial system implementation
- Budget optimization
Mr. Utsav Silwal
Research Intern
Bachelors in Development Studies
Expertise
Key Achievements
- Research Lead - Nepal-Japan Project
- Science Journalism Mentorship
Ms. Yeshi Choedon Gurung
Research Intern
Bachelors in Development Studies
Expertise
Key Achievements
- Field research projects
- Community assessment studies
Advisory Team
Our panel of expert advisors providing specialized guidance and strategic direction.
Dr. Menuka Maharjan
Advisor, Watershed Management
PhD, Watershed Management
Specialization
Advisory Focus
- Watershed management projects
- Climate adaptation research
Mr. Karna Bahadur Darai
Advisor, Sociologist
M.A., Sociology
Specialization
Advisory Focus
- Social impact assessments
- Community development programs
Mr. Anil Bhandari
Advisor, Climate Change
M.Sc., Environmental Management
Specialization
Advisory Focus
- Climate adaptation projects
- Environmental management systems
Ms. Suchita Shrestha
Advisor, Climate and Water Governance
M.Sc., Environmental Science, M.A., Sociology
Specialization
Advisory Focus
- Climate policy development
- Water governance projects
Ms. Sabina Khatri
Advisor, Hydrogeologist
M.Sc. Environmental Engineering and Hydrogeology
Specialization
Advisory Focus
- Groundwater mapping projects
- Water quality assessments
Mr. Pranav Acharya
ESG Advisor
Specialization
Mr. Avash
Advisor / Disaster Risk Reduction
Specialization
Mr. Aashutosh Khadgi
IT Advisor
Specialization
Our Team Philosophy
At HRFN, we believe in the power of collaboration and continuous learning. Our team follows a mentorship model where experienced professionals guide emerging researchers and interns.