The project, which has been launched in February 2025, will initially be funded by the (BMBF for three years, followed by a consolidation phase. The aim is to establish a long-term partnership between German and Ecuadorian researchers. LIB researchers have been involved in projects in Ecuador for almost five years
The science center is supposed to offer local and international researchers an infrastructure and services for their work: for example, there will be help with applying for permits, setting up collaborations, and, organizing joint excursions. Researchers will also have access to the morphological and molecular laboratories and biobanks of the PUCE as well as to the field stations and collections of the Zoological Museum in Quito.
The LIB is contributing its expertise in biodiversity monitoring and nature conservation research to the project. In addition, scientists from molecular biodiversity research at the LIB contribute their knowledge to research into infectious and chronic diseases that are transmitted from animals to humans. The CISeAL Center for Research on Health in Latin America is a key project partner in this area.
Another focus of the project is the training of Ecuadorian researchers and students, particularly in animal groups where there is little local expertise to date. As part of the project, a course in biodiversity research and systematics will be offered as part of a Master's program at the PUCE.
Further Reading
- Leibniz Institute for the Analysis of Biodiversity Change(18.02.2025): LIB establishes Centre for biodiversity research in Ecuador
