About
WildCRU — the Wildlife Conservation Research Unit — is part of the University of Oxford's Department of Biology and stands as one of the world's foremost centers for conservation science. Founded nearly four decades ago, WildCRU's mission is to generate evidence-based, interdisciplinary solutions to pressing conservation challenges across the globe. The unit's research spans nine key themes: Changing Landscapes, Communicating Conservation, Conflict and Coexistence, Conservation Recovery, Controversial Conservation, Essential Knowledge, Health Welfare and Ethics, Incentivising Conservation, and Wildlife Use and Misuse. Its work covers iconic and threatened species including lions, tigers, jaguars, Ethiopian wolves, clouded leopards, African wild dogs, Scottish wildcats, and more. With members originating from over 40 countries and active programmes in 15 nations, WildCRU has a truly global reach. Its outputs underpin conservation strategy, inform on-the-ground project implementation, and drive policy change at local, national, and international levels — with over 50 conservation initiatives running simultaneously. Beyond research, WildCRU is deeply committed to education and capacity building. It offers postgraduate Diploma, Masters, and PhD programs, having trained more than 317 students to date. The unit fosters a collaborative, diverse, and inclusive research community that empowers conservationists from around the world to tackle biodiversity loss with creativity and scientific rigor. WildCRU is ideal for researchers, conservationists, policymakers, and students passionate about wildlife and environmental sustainability.
Key Features
- Nine Research Themes: Covers a broad spectrum of conservation science including Conflict and Coexistence, Conservation Recovery, Health & Ethics, and Wildlife Use and Misuse.
- Species-Specific Programmes: Dedicated research on iconic and threatened species such as lions, tigers, jaguars, Ethiopian wolves, Scottish wildcats, and more.
- Global Research Network: Active programmes in 15 countries with members from over 40 nations, enabling impactful conservation work across multiple continents.
- Postgraduate Education: Offers Diploma, Masters, and PhD programmes in wildlife conservation, having trained over 317 students from around the world.
- Policy and Strategy Influence: Research outputs directly inform conservation policy and strategy at local, national, and international levels through 50+ active initiatives.
Use Cases
- Academic researchers seeking interdisciplinary collaboration on wildlife conservation projects across multiple continents.
- Students applying for postgraduate Diploma, Masters, or PhD programmes in international wildlife conservation practice.
- Conservation policymakers looking for evidence-based research to inform national or international biodiversity strategies.
- NGOs and conservation organizations seeking partnerships or scientific guidance for on-the-ground conservation initiatives.
- Media and educators looking for credible, peer-reviewed information on threatened species and conservation challenges.
Pros
- World-Class Academic Backing: Affiliated with the University of Oxford, lending unparalleled academic credibility and access to world-class resources.
- Truly Interdisciplinary Approach: Integrates ecology, social science, policy, and ethics to produce holistic, actionable conservation solutions.
- Strong Education & Training Pipeline: Actively trains the next generation of conservationists through structured academic programmes and collaborative field opportunities.
- Long Track Record: Nearly 40 years of continuous conservation research provides a deep, trusted evidence base for real-world impact.
Cons
- Academic Focus May Limit Accessibility: As a university research unit, outputs and opportunities may be more accessible to academics than to general public or grassroots organizations.
- Limited Digital Tools or Platform Features: WildCRU is a research unit, not a software platform — it does not offer interactive digital tools, apps, or AI-powered features for end users.
- Competitive Entry for Study Programmes: PhD and Diploma programmes are highly competitive and may not be accessible to all aspiring conservationists.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is WildCRU?
WildCRU (Wildlife Conservation Research Unit) is an interdisciplinary research unit within the University of Oxford's Department of Biology, focused on evidence-based solutions to global conservation challenges.
What species does WildCRU study?
WildCRU conducts research on a wide range of species including lions, tigers, jaguars, Ethiopian wolves, clouded leopards, African wild dogs, Scottish wildcats, European badgers, hedgehogs, and mink, among others.
Can I study at WildCRU?
Yes. WildCRU offers postgraduate Diploma, Masters, and PhD programmes in wildlife conservation. Over 317 students have been trained to date, coming from diverse backgrounds worldwide.
Where does WildCRU operate?
WildCRU has active research programmes in 15 countries across multiple continents, with members originating from over 40 countries.
How does WildCRU influence conservation policy?
WildCRU's research directly informs conservation strategy and policy at local, national, and international levels, supporting over 50 conservation initiatives globally.
