Publications & Outreach

7th Grade-College

Through advanced animal and plant research, CREW is leading the way to secure a positive future for endangered species. During this tour of the CREW building, students will have the opportunity to see scientists in the labs and gain a better understanding of the science taking place every day, right here at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden

Visit our Field Trip page for more information.

Preparing Scientists to Conserve the Future

The potential positive impact that research could have on wildlife conservation is enormous, but the actual impact it will have is limited, both by resource availability and the number of scientists involved in the effort. To help expand the global foundation of scientists conducting conservation-related research, CREW has established a Post-doctoral Training Program that provides a unique opportunity to new, enthusiastic scientists seeking careers in conservation-related fields. Since its inception in 1997, CREW has had more than 20 Postdocs complete their training and move on to rewarding careers.

What is the Post-Doc Program?

The program typically lasts two years and emphasizes many aspects central to CREW’s mission including education, research, and international training. Program objectives are multi-faceted. It provides an opportunity for academically oriented scientists to gain experience in coordinating conservation-based research projects in a zoo setting.

This requires learning how to design scientific studies that can be conducted on intractable animals about which little is known.

Postdoctoral Fellows must work closely with zoo keeper staff, collaborate with other zoological institutions, conduct research at distant zoos or in the field using a ‘mobile lab’ approach, and relate the importance of their work to the general public as well as the scientific community. The program has broadened the scope of research at CREW by bringing in scientists with varied expertise, interests, and fresh, creative ideas. Furthermore, it has increased the scientific productivity of CREW.

Proof of the Program’s Effectiveness

CREW’s Post-doctoral Training program has attracted excellent candidates both nationally and internationally. Trainees have gone on to secure permanent positions in various capacities that allow them to continue pursuing their interests in both wildlife and plant conservation research.