Conservation Innovation Lab

Applied interdisciplinary conservation research at Arizona State University.

Welcome

We are an interdisciplinary and collegial group of ecologists, mathematicians, economists, geographers and conservation scientists applying our research to address real world challenges. Grounded in natural history, primary data collection, quantitative methods, and an appreciation of human-environment interactions, our work employs decision science to inform policies that help sustain life on Earth.

Learn more about Conservation Innovation Lab values and collaborations.

What We Do

We employ a multidisciplinary approach that leverages rigorous science and collaborative partnerships to inform effective conservation policies and practices. By generating innovative research and actionable strategies, we are shaping the future of conservation and working towards a more sustainable and resilient planet for future generations. 


Why We Do It

We are a community of diverse, highly driven academics making a tangible difference for biodiversity across the globe. Our work supports diverse communities and aims to change the landscape of conservation science and its implementation.

Part of our lab's mission is to train the next generation of conservation leaders. As such, we work closely with students to support their personal goals in research, education, and professional development. 

Our lab provides a uniquely supportive and inclusive environment for our students.  As conservation scientists face current ecological crises, we provide a workplace that cultivates hope and inspires future leaders to become agents of change. The majority of our current graduate students are women, and we foster a supportive culture that recognizes the unique challenges faced by women in conservation. We also make considerable effort to uplift girls and women of color in our programs, and we promote culturally responsive learning. 

Fig1.pdf

Alt text: Example of the benefit of optimal allocation from Gerber et al. 2018. The figure shows the annual budget over 50 year on the horizontal axis, and the expected number of species recovered in the vertical axis. The plot shows how the efficient allocation of resources allows the expected recovery of more species. For example, at an annual budget of $150 million, the efficient allocation is predicted to recover 1168 species, while the inefficient allocation 104 species.

How We Do It

We use a variety of methods to bring data to decision-making, which can improve conservation outcomes.  Examples include: quantitative population models, spatial optimization, evidence synthesis, and social science surveys, interviews, and focus groups. Check out our Current Projects to learn more about ongoing work in the lab. 


Our Values