ZSL has renewed its longstanding partnership with University College London (UCL), through a newly signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), reinforcing their united commitment to drive innovation in conservation science and safeguard global biodiversity.
The agreement, signed by ZSL’s CEO, Matthew Gould, and UCL’s Pro-Provost, Professor Alan Thompson, enables deeper collaboration in research, education, impact and public engagement initiatives aimed at tacking global environmental challenges.
Drawing on a shared history spanning 200 years since both organisations were founded in 1826, the strengthening of this partnership will harness cutting edge science, and build upon, enhance and develop these initiatives at both institutions.
Expanding frontiers in conservation science
With their combined expertise, UCL and ZSL continue to integrate world-class expertise to explore new frontiers in ecological and technological innovation. Their partnership exemplifies how academic institutions and conservation organisations can collaborate to create a more sustainable future where people and wildlife can thrive together.
“We are delighted to consolidate the relationship between UCL and ZSL, enabling our continued collaboration with the Institute of Zoology, ZSL’s research division” said Professor Gail Taylor, Dean of UCL’s Faculty of Life Sciences.
“This partnership will enhance shared research, teaching, impact and public engagement across both institutions, and marks an exciting step forward in our shared commitment to the science of wildlife conservation.”
Right image: L-R Professor Alan Thompson, Professor Gail Taylor, Professor Sir Jim Smith, Matthew Gould, Professor Johan du Toit.
Educating the conservationists of tomorrow
Through joint studentships, shared expertise, and increased collaboration for both staff and students, the organisations will strengthen ties to influence global environmental policy and deepen public understanding of how human wellbeing is fundamentally tied to the health of our ecosystems.
This is evident in the range of interdisciplinary postgraduate programmes co-delivered by ZSL's Institute of Zoology and UCL, where students benefit from immersive conservation experience at ZSL’s two conservation zoos, as well as world-leading academic resources at UCL’s Bloomsbury and East London campuses. Graduates from these joint programmes, which include UKRI doctoral programmes such as AI-INTERVENE and TREES, leave prepared with the skills to tackle pressing environmental issues at the intersection of technology, ecology, and health.
Professor Johan du Toit, Director of Science at ZSL’s Institute of Zoology said: "We’re proud to be reaffirming our long-standing partnership with UCL. Today isn’t simply a milestone for our two institutions – it’s a shared commitment to safeguarding life on Earth. Through cutting-edge science and global collaboration, we’re working at the forefront of ecological innovation and driving urgently-needed conservation action. This partnership helps us continue connecting and training people passionate about protecting the world around us.”
Celebrating a shared bicentennial vision
In 2026, UCL and ZSL will both celebrate their 200th anniversaries. Joint commemorative events and activities will take place across the year to mark the impact of this shared milestone, celebrate a shared institutional legacy, and present a vision for the future of our partnership.
From working with local communities to wildlife health monitoring, as the original science-led conservation charity we are leading a fight for wildlife across the globe. Together we can make a difference, join us on our journey to build a better future.