Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute
The Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, which launched on January 25, 2010, serves as an umbrella for the Smithsonian’s global effort to conserve species and train future generations of conservationists. The SCBI is headquartered in Front Royal, Virginia, at the facility previously known as the National Zoo’s Conservation and Research Center.
The SCBI facilitates and promotes research programs based at Front Royal, at the National Zoo in Washington, and at field-research and training sites around the world. Its efforts support one of the four main goals of the Smithsonian’s new strategic plan, which advances “understanding and sustaining a biodiverse planet.”
Conservation biology is based on the premise that the conservation of biological diversity is important and benefits current and future human societies. National Zoo scientists (among the pioneers in the field of conservation biology) have long been leaders in the study, management, protection, and restoration of threatened species, ecological communities, habitats, and ecosystems.
As the benefits of conserving biodiversity become more commonly understood, the SCBI will allow Smithsonian scientists to be recognized as leaders in developing ways to stem the loss of biodiversity and aid in the recovery of endangered species and habitats. SCBI conducts research to aid in the survival or recovery of species and their habitats, and to ensure the health and well-being of animals in captivity and in the wild.
Our scientists are world leaders in conservation biology who work all over the globe. 
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The Institute consists of six centers:
Center for Conservation Education and Sustainability
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Scientists at the CBES protect the planet’s biodiversity by teaching conservation principles and practices. They work to find ways to help scientists, managers, companies, and industries become more environmentally responsible. The CBES recruits, educates, and intellectually equips the next generation of conservation professionals. Learn more.
Smithsonian Migratory Bird Center
The Migratory Bird Center studies Neotropical songbirds and wetland birds, the role of disease in bird population declines, and the environmental challenges facing urban and suburban birds. They also train professionals in environmental coffee certification throughout Latin America. Learn more.
Conservation Ecology Center
The CEC focuses on recovering and sustaining at-risk wildlife species and their supporting ecosystems in key marine and terrestrial regions throughout the globe.
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Center for Species Survival
The CSS scientists researche issues in reproductive physiology, endocrinology, cryobiology, embryo biology, animal behavior, wildlife toxicology, and assisted reproduction. They strive to create knowledge that ensures self-sustaining populations in zoos and in the wild. Learn more.
Center for Conservation and Evolutionary Genetics
Scientists at the CCEG work to understand and conserve biodiversity through genetic research. They specialize in the genetic management of wild and captive animal populations, non-invasive and ancient DNA analyses, systematics, disease diagnosis and dynamics, genetic services to the zoo community, and application of genetic methods to animal behavior and ecology. Learn more.
Center for Wildlife Health and Husbandry Sciences
The National Zoo is devoted to being a leader in animal care. Taking care of animals is a complex, demanding, multifaceted endeavor. The Center for Animal Health and Husbandry Sciences provides for the mental and physical well-being of every animal at the Zoo. Learn more.
