We welcome collaboration with researchers from academic, zoological, and professional research institutions
Colchester Zoological Society (CZS) is dedicated to encouraging, supporting and conducting research that improves captive animal management, benefits conservation and contributes to the body of scientific knowledge about animals and their habitats. The World Zoo and Aquaria Conservation Strategy highlights research as a major role for modern zoos.
Click the below headings for information about how to be involved in research at Colchester Zoo:
CZS’s research includes both animal-based studies and visitor studies. Animal-based studies can focus on behaviour, welfare, nutrition, husbandry, environmental enrichment, ecology, reproduction and conservation. All animal-based research undertaken in the Zoo is non-invasive and mostly conducted through observation of the animals in their captive environment.
Research studies assist Colchester Zoological Society in a number of ways:
- Helping develop animal management practices, by assessing effects on animals, such as: enclosure design, diet and social groups
- Benefiting conservation of species and habitats, by improving the success of captive breeding programmes and in-situ programmes
- Promoting conservation through education, by assessing visitor attitudes and perceptions
Application Process
The Research Team works closely with other departments within the zoo including Animal Management staff and the Conservation Education team to identify priority topics. CZS encourages applications for research within these priority areas. See the handbook below for this priority research list.
Below is an archive of research which has been conducted at CZS. For more details of any past projects, or to find out more about research at Colchester Zoo, please contact our Research Lead: Jemma Dias, jemmadias@colchesterzoo.org
All applications received will be assessed by our Research Team. Applications will be accepted on the basis of the subject area, including the value to science, ethical considerations, and the logistics of the study, including staff time and resources.
Please see the BIAZA Research Resources (click to open) for more details about research in BIAZA institutes, as well as resources and other information to help you develop your research project.
Application Form
All researchers wishing to conduct a project at, or in association with CZS, must submit an application form.
All applications should be sent to the Research Lead a minimum of one month in advance of the perspective start date.
Research Handbook
Please review the research handbook for guidelines and procedures all researchers must follow at CZS. It also outlines our priority research areas and the applicable research fee.
Example Case Studies
Past Research Projects
Below is an archive of research which has been conducted at CZS. For more details of any past projects, or to find out more about research at Colchester Zoo, please contact our Research Lead: Jemma Dias, jemmadias@colchesterzoo.org
