My research seeks to uncover what works, and what doesn’t, in biodiversity conservation. I address this question through conducting global syntheses of the evidence for conservation actions for a range of species groups, including reptiles, corals and pollinating insects. As part of this work, I co-design tools and processes for improving evidence use in conservation, engaging directly with research end-users to understand their evidence needs. I am also collaborating with computer scientists to develop AI-powered tools for drastically speeding up evidence synthesis, which will allow us to deliver policy-relevant evidence quickly, reliably and transparently. Collaboration has played a key role in my work, and I have built links with funders, consultants, NGOs and policy makers through projects like the Conservation Learning Initiative that develop our understanding of key conservation policies and strategies by applying the best available evidence. I have also worked on population ecology questions pertinent to conservation challenges, particularly around how species will expand their ranges in response to environmental change, exploring whether actions like species reintroductions might help populations keep pace in an ever-changing world.
