A Guide for Successful Research Collaborations between Zoos and Universities

Abstract

Synopsis Zoos offer university researchers unique opportunities to study animals that would be difficult or impractical to work with in the wild. However, the different cultures, goals, and priorities of zoos and universities can be a source of conflict. How can researchers build mutually beneficial collaborations with their local zoo? In this article, we present the results of a survey of 117 personnel from 59 zoos around the United States, where we highlight best practices spanning all phases of collaboration, from planning to working alongside the zoo and maintaining contact afterward. Collaborations were hindered if university personnel did not appreciate the zoo staff’s time constraints as well as the differences between zoo animals and laboratory animals. We include a vision for how to improve zoo collaborations, along with a history of our own decade-long collaborations with Zoo Atlanta. A central theme is the long-term establishment of trust between institutions.