In the 1990s, I passed up opportunities in the UK and South Africa to stay close to my daughter, anchoring my career at the University of Murcia. In 1994, I began focusing on coprolite analysis, arid-zone palynology, and non-pollen microfossils, leading to research in Amsterdam and South Africa in 1996, which deepened my ecological perspective. My time in South Africa, reminiscent of a Pleistocene Mediterranean, along with paleoart projects, enriched my interdisciplinary teaching. I also pioneered the Plant Evolution course at the University of Murcia, becoming the first Professor in this field in Spain.

Much of my career has also been dedicated to scientific evaluation, from editorial work and international peer review to leading national research programs. From the beginning, I've been driven by principles later formalized in the DORA declaration (2012): fair assessment of quality work, regardless of institutional prestige, personal fame, origin, gender, or any other condition. As an editor, I have been deeply rewarded by the warm recognition from authors in countries facing significant challenges in scientific research. As a research manager, I've also found fulfillment, though holistic evaluation has never been easy.

I have occasionally served as a columnist, poet, and essayist. I am deeply appreciative of the recognition and affection from my students, which I consider a professional blessing. However, I have faced physical challenges, including Crohn's Disease and Oromandibular Dystonia. Dystonia left me temporarily unable to speak and with difficulties eating during 2012-13, which significantly reduced my independent scientific output and ability to give lectures. Since then, I have sometimes struggled with verbal expression, particularly in languages other than my native tongue, and I have lost some hearing. Fortunately, I was born with a sanguine temperament, allowing me to channel this physical suffering as an opportunity to transform my daily life, focusing on quality over quantity and embracing a more natural pace of work, rather than being caught up in an increasingly relentless busyness.