The Wildlife Conservation Research Unit
The planet’s human population increases by more than 200,000 people every day. At the same time, global consumption and inequality are rising. As a result, our planetary footprint is unsustainable, with ever more severe and intensifying pressure on finite natural resources throughout the world. The resulting environmental degradation, biodiversity loss and climate change destroys nature and impacts human well-being. The mission of the Wildlife Conservation Research Unit (WildCRU) is to achieve practical solutions to conservation problems through original scientific research. Our research is used worldwide to advise environmental policy-makers. The need for our efforts is greater than ever.
Part of the University of Oxford’s Department of Biology, WildCRU is a pioneering, inter-disciplinary research unit in a world-class academic centre. We underpin solutions to conservation problems through primary scientific research of the highest calibre. Our approach is empirical, interdisciplinary and collaborative, seeking to include all four elements of our “Conservation Quartet” research to understand and address the problem; education to explain it; community involvement to ensure participation and acceptance; and implementation of long-term solutions.
Video narrated by Prof David Macdonald. Created by, and used with the kind permission of United for Wildlife: www.unitedforwildlife.org/
News
‘ConnectingLandscapes’: a decision support system for wildlife connectivity
12/02/2025
There is an urgent need to identify areas to focus conservation efforts as habitats are increasingly fragmented and lost. These areas should serve a key role in maintaining ... Read full story
Two new doctoral research opportunities in wildlife conservation
17/12/2024
WildCRU is pleased to offer two new doctoral opportunities for 2025, with potential funding available to support the applicants. The projects will strengthen WildCRU’s mission to transform wildlife ... Read full story
Valerie Mitchell LMH-WildCRU Graduate Scholarships are open for applications
17/12/2024
WildCRU is pleased to offer two new studentships, which provide partial funding, generously supported by an alumna of our collegiate base, Lady Margaret Hall. The second phase of ... Read full story