"Applied Biodiversity Research" at SANBI is a catch-all phrase for the diverse work being undertaken that provides a scientific knowledge base for decision-making. The portfolio of projects and programmes deals with contemporary issues relating to the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity and the contribution of biodiversity to sustainable development. The research is guided by the SANBI mandate as contained in the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act (NEMBA) as well as the priority actions in the National Biodiversity Framework.
The underlying objective of the research is to develop a predictive understanding of biodiversity dynamics within the context of a changing environment and ongoing interactions between people and biodiversity.
Research areas
The research is organised into interactive programmes that focus on broad areas relating to biodiversity conservation and sustainable development - such as the value and use of species, ecosystem services and their value to society, population ecology and molecular ecology. These programmes mostly have their own web pages - please use the left menu to navigate.
Developing research
The Biodiversity Research, Assessment and Monitoring Division at SANBI is led by Chief Director Prof John Donaldson, who is supported by numerous scientists or programme leaders specialising in specific outputs, and several administration and support staff.
SANBI believes in developing young biodiversity scientists and the division offers several internships and studentships every year - please look at the Jobs & Opportunities section of the SANBI website regularly for the latest adverts.
For more information about applied biodiversity research at SANBI, please contact Dr Ferozah Conrad, Deputy Director for research operations.