Working with local students, scientists and communities to build leadership for lasting conservation

Discovering biodiversity. Developing scientific capacity. Conserving nature
For almost a century, the Harrison Institute has worked with scientists and communities across Africa and Asia to discover biodiversity, strengthen scientific expertise and turn research into practical conservation.
We believe biodiversity is best conserved when the scientists and communities who live alongside it have the opportunity to study, understand and protect it.
That belief shapes everything we do. We combine scientific research, long-term mentoring and international collaboration to strengthen local leadership for conservation in biodiversity-rich but under-studied regions.
Featured stories
A new chapter at the University of Exeter
Following almost a century in Sevenoaks, Kent, the Harrison Institute has begun an exciting new chapter at the University of Exeter's Penryn Campus in Cornwall. The move opens new opportunities for research collaboration, student mentoring and biodiversity conservation, while strengthening the Institute's long-standing international partnerships and scientific collections.
New species from Cameroon
Mentored through the Harrison Institute, a PhD student from Cameroon led the discovery of two bat species new to science. The work highlights both the remarkable biodiversity of Central African forests and the importance of developing the next generation of conservation scientists.
Read more →