
Diploma Student
Eva Johnson Ayaro
PROFILE
I am a wildlife conservationist and researcher from Tanzania, dedicated to biodiversity conservation, ecological research, and community-led conservation initiatives. My passion for wildlife conservation led me to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in Wildlife Sciences and Conservation at the University of Dar es Salaam, where I developed a strong foundation in species conservation, habitat management, and ecological monitoring.
My professional experience has focused on the conservation of threatened reptiles and amphibians, particularly endemic chameleons and frog species in Tanzania. I have worked extensively in biodiversity research, species monitoring, and habitat assessments, ensuring that conservation strategies are driven by scientific evidence and local community engagement.
Currently, I am a Tasso Leventis African Biodiversity Fellow at the University of Oxford’s ICCS and an EDGE Fellow with the Zoological Society of London. I also serve as a Research Intern at the Tanzania Wildlife Research Institute (TAWIRI), where I contribute to species monitoring, ecological assessments, and conservation planning. My work integrates scientific research with practical conservation strategies, ensuring that both biodiversity and local communities benefit from conservation efforts.
Previously, I worked as a Field Officer with the Environmental Conservation for Wildlife and Community Enterprise (ECOWICE), where I led conservation education programs, human-wildlife conflict mitigation initiatives, and sustainable livelihood projects. Additionally, I have conducted field research on wild dog conservation, avian monitoring, and species distribution studies in several of Tanzania’s protected areas. I am also involved with the Women in Conservation Organization (WICO), supporting environmental education and conservation leadership for young women in Tanzania.
Through this diploma, I aim to refine my expertise in data analysis, field research techniques, and leadership skills to implement evidence-based conservation strategies. I see this opportunity at Oxford as a pivotal step in my career, equipping me with the skills to shape conservation policies and practices in Tanzania and beyond, ensuring the long-term protection of its rich biodiversity.