International experts will share expertise at the European Conservation Genetics Meeting 2022 in Edinburgh. Image Conservation genetics is contributing to the conservation of some of the world’s most endangered wildlife. Picture credit: Guy Stevens, Manta Trust The fifth annual European Conservation Genetics Meeting (ConsGen22) will be held for the first time in Scotland and online, from 30 August to 1 September. It will be the first meeting of its kind in the UK and the hosts – the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS), the University of Edinburgh and the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh (RBGE) – are recognised as global leaders in the fields of wildlife conservation and biodiversity research. Experts will be sharing recent developments in conservation genetics from around Europe and beyond in Edinburgh, a hub of science and innovation. Protecting species The study of genetics is fundamental to species, the ecosystem, and for conservation. By understanding the genetic diversity within a population, experts can define what they are working with and how best to protect it. Conservation genetics is a rapidly evolving field which is revolutionising species management and contributing to the conservation of some of the world’s most endangered wildlife. Scientists are ensuring that genetic tools and methods are available to conservationists working on a wide range of threatened species on the frontline of conservation around the world. This is the first time the European Conservation Genetics Meeting has happened in the UK and we're really excited to welcome everyone to the wonderful city of Edinburgh. Dr Emily Humble, Research Fellow in Conservation GenomicsRoyal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies and the Roslin Institute Collaboration and teamwork are fundamental in conservation. Our planet is facing an extinction crisis, so now more than ever, we are looking forward to hosting an in-person global event to learn and share vital information. By coming together to share our expertise and experience in designing genetic tools, we can protect species around the world and help secure a future for wildlife. Dr Kara Dicks, ResearcherRZSS WildGenes, Edinburgh Zoo Genetics and genomics are increasingly important tools in the urgent quest for the conservation of threatened species. This European Conservation Genetics meeting provides an essential opportunity for researchers at all career stages to share their cutting-edge techniques and exciting results. Professor Pete Hollingsworth, Director of ScienceRoyal Botanic Garden Edinburgh Conference registration and abstract submissions are live from 27 April. **The Roslin Institute receives strategic investment funding from the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council and it is part of the University of Edinburgh’s Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies. ** Related links ConsGen22 Assessing genetic diversity is vital for nature Conservation Science at the R(D)SVS and the Roslin Institute
