Research
Scientific research is a significant part of Frontier's work. Since 1989 we have carried out research in many of the world's most significant biodiversity hotspots. Often, these places are little-known in the scientific community and there is a real need to build up a base of knowledge regarding each unique environment and its species, so that they may be protected into the future.
Biodiversity surveying and monitoring is central to Frontier's research activities, as many sites where our scientists are working lack baseline data. Other work includes terrestrial and marine habitat mapping, investigation of the ecology of many different species of interest (like puku antelope in Tanzania, sea turtles in Fiji, or lemurs in Madagascar), and socio-economic research into sustainable livelihoods. The results of these studies contribute to the establishment of protected areas and the implementation of sustainable resource management for local communities.
In some cases, such as Mafia Island Marine Park, Tanzania's first marine park, this involves setting up marine protected areas around coral reefs with a high conservation value. In others it involves promoting alternative sources of income for communities relying on rainforests, such as medicinal plant cultivation by Hmong farmers in Sa Pa, Vietnam.
We work hard to maintain our relationships with local communities and governments, universities and institutions, as effective conservation is best achieved by involving all stakeholders. In order to maintain the highest scientific standards we work in consultation with a wide range of professionals at institutions and universities from around the world. This ensures our methods are sound, our conclusions are accurate and we remain at the forefront of scientific research.
We aim to keep our work relevant to modern science so that in the future researchers can build upon it. We employ credible scientists who have already established their position as high calibre, published researchers. All of our research volunteers are trained in standardized methods of data collection, which often goes on to be published in peer-reviewed journals. We also regularly attend international conferences and symposia on biodiversity and conservation, and have discovered a number of species new to science.
We offer opportunities for postgraduate students looking to write their thesis and dissertation researchers are given a significant discount on regular programme fees. Please see our dissertations page for more information.