research students
Science for Conservation
The Zoological Society of East Anglia (ZSEA) runs a dynamic and comprehensive research programme. Research plays a crucial role in expanding our knowledge of animals, both within the zoo and in their natural habitats. We’re passionate about supporting innovative research projects across our zoo, covering a wide range of areas such as animal behaviour, nutrition, environmental enrichment, enclosure use, physiology, and veterinary science.
Preparing for Animal Research
Before you embark on an animal-focused research project, there are key considerations such as sample size, methodology, and overall approach. To guide you, the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA) offers comprehensive research guidelines to answer many of your questions.
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Next Steps
All research conducted at Banham Zoo needs to follow our Research Procedure. Each project must be approved by a Research Coordinator and Animal Manager. For full details on how to submit your project, please contact research@zsea.org to receive our Research Handbook.
Contact
Submit Your Research Application
To submit your application or if you have any questions, please reach out to Sarah Lee at sarah.lee@zsea.org. Completed forms can also be sent by post to Banham Zoo, marked for the attention of the Conservation Coordinator.
Submit
We Save Species
As a charity, Banham Zoo leads impactful initiatives to save species from extinction.
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Some Helpful Links
What type of research does Banham Zoo support?
We support a wide range of research projects, including studies on animal behaviour, nutrition, environmental enrichment, physiology, veterinary science, and the use of enclosures. Our goal is to enhance the understanding of animals both in captivity and the wild.
Who can conduct research at Banham Zoo?
We welcome researchers, students, and professionals who meet our research guidelines. All research must align with our conservation and welfare goals and be approved by our Research Coordinator and Animal Manager.
What steps do I need to take to submit a research project?
Before starting a research project at Banham Zoo, you need to follow our Research Procedure. This includes submitting a Research Application Form and having your project approved by our team. You can download our Research Handbook for full submission details.
Download
Can I request to study a specific animal or species?
Yes, we encourage researchers to propose studies that focus on specific animals or species within our collections. However, your proposal will need to align with our animal welfare and conservation priorities.
Do you offer any research guidelines?
Yes, we follow the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA) research guidelines. These guidelines cover methodology, sample size, and ethical considerations. You can visit the BIAZA website for more information.
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How can I contact Banham Zoo for research inquiries?
For any questions or to submit a research application, please email sarah.lee@zsea.org. Alternatively, you can send completed application forms to Banham, attention ‘Conservation Coordinator’.
Email
How long does it take to get approval for my research project?
The approval process typically takes a few weeks. We recommend submitting your application well in advance of your planned research start date to allow time for review.
Can I publish my research results after completing the project?
Yes, you are welcome to publish your research findings, as long as they follow ethical guidelines and contribute positively to the understanding of wildlife and conservation.
