Dr. Andrew Balmford

Biography

Andrew Balmford is a Professor in the Department of Zoology at the University of Cambridge. He has spent a decade as a research fellow at the Institute of Zoology in London before becoming a lecturer at the University of Sheffield. In 1998, he returned to the Zoology Department at Cambridge, where he teaches conservation science and helps run the Conservation Science Group. His research focuses on reconciling biodiversity conservation with meeting human food needs and the impacts of land-demanding activities. He analyses the costs and benefits of retaining intact ecosystems and collaborates closely with conservation practitioners across disciplines, including economics and psychology. He authored the book 'Wild Hope,' advocating for a cautious yet evidence-based optimism in addressing environmental challenges. He has played a crucial role in establishing initiatives like the Student Conference on Conservation Science and the Cambridge Conservation Initiative.

Research Interests

Experience