“Biodiversity contributes a lot to us directly and indirectly. We depend on it for the food and water that nourishes us, to regulate the climate and protect us from all kinds of risks. ”
Welcome
The disciplines of biological field studies and of ecology have been embedded in UCL from the early days of both the College and the sciences themselves. From John Lindley to Francis Oliver to Edward Salisbury to Georgina Mace, UCL has been home to some of the most transformative thinkers in ecology.
The establishment of the Centre for Biodiversity and Environment Research in 2013 was the latest expression of UCL’s commitment to developing our understanding of the environment, both for its own sake and in relation to human health and happiness. Such understanding is central to UCL Grand Challenges. Valuing and maintaining biodiversity is also central to the UN Strategic Development Goals.
Today, CBER continues to conduct ground-breaking research in biodiversity and the environment whilst training the next generation of scientists and conservation leaders.
Who is CBER?
People
With over 75 researchers, the CBER team works across 29 different projects in biodiversity and environmental research.
Research Groups
Our 30+ research groups develop innovative and transformative research at the interface between biodiversity and environmental change.
UCL People and Nature Lab
CBER's interdisciplinary applied research and teaching partnership, the People and Nature Lab, develops new solutions to biodiversity loss, global ecosystem degradation, and climate change.
Work and study at CBER
Interested in becoming a part of CBER? Find all of our current opportunities here.
Research themes
CBER develops innovative research at the interface of biodiversity and environmental change through three research themes.
ExploreBiodiversity: A UCL Priority
UCL researches biodiversity loss, drivers, and ecosystem resilience, uniting disciplines to secure a healthier future for people and nature.
Learn moreDiscover our department
Our working environment
From teaching in the field to influencing international policy, CBER operates across multiple scientific disciplines and methodologies, with an approach that is committed to inclusion and diversity.
Impacting policy
CBER works with governments, NGOs, and stakeholders to influence policy and promote a just, sustainable future by aligning human economies with nature rather than against it.
Communicating Science
CBER is committed to promoting science as a creative and inclusive way of seeing the world, celebrating our understanding of nature, as well as embracing our uncertainty about how it works.
CBER Newsletters
Newsletters showcasing the diverse range of activities and research which takes place in the Centre for Biodiversity and Environment Research (CBER).
Get to know usCBER Lunchbox Podcast
The CBER Lunchbox Podcast aims to highlight what it is like to be a scientist.
Discover more
UCL at COP
UCL's involvement includes providing scientific evidence and research, as well as supporting diverse voices, including students, within the climate conversation.
Francis Wall Oliver Research Centre - Blakeney Point
A purpose-built laboratory and field studies research outpost facility at Blakeney Point National Nature Reserve, marshland that is preserved by the National Trust.
Our history
Our History
Founded in 2013, CBER reflects UCL’s commitment to ecology and evolution research and training, highlighting biodiversity’s vital role in sustaining economies and human well-being.
Prof. Dame Georgina Mace DBE FRS
Our leader, colleague and friend Professor Dame Georgina Mace DBE FRS passed away on the 19th of September 2020.
Honouring her legacyRemembering Ben Collen
Our colleague Ben Collen passed in May 2018 after bone cancer. He left a lasting legacy in conservation biology through his research and inspiration.
Honouring his legacyStudy
Undergraduate
CBER staff teach modules on various undergraduate programmes including the Biodiversity and Conservation pathway that is available for BSc and MSci degrees in Biological Sciences.
Masters programmes
MSc in Ecology, Climate Change and Health, MSc Ecology and Data Science, MSc Ecology and Urban Engineering, MSc Biodiversity and Global Change and our MRes in Biodiversity, Evolution and Conservation
PhDs
Become part of one of the largest and most active research environments for biological and environmental research in the UK.
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Centre for Ecology and Evolution
CEE links scientists across London to foster collaboration between researchers. We run a series of events hosted at partner institutions, focusing on specific topics in evolution and ecology.
UCL Biosciences
The Division of Biosciences at UCL is one of the world's foremost centres for research and teaching in the biological sciences.
Genetics, Evolution and Environment
UCL Research Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment (GEE) is world-leading in the study of Evolutionary Biology, Human Genetics, Healthy Ageing and Biodiversity research.
News
Bähler Group Latest Paper
Mitochondrial Translation Inhibition Triggers an Rst2-Controlled Transcriptional Reprogramming of Carbon Metabolism in Stationary-Phase Cells of Fission Yeast.
25 Sep 2025
Linda Partridge joins Brian Cox on A Question of Science
Every week, Professor Brian Cox and panels of scientists and experts tackle audience questions about some of the biggest issues facing society today.
17 Sep 2025
How micronutrient shortages changed human DNA
Tiny elements in the human diet, such as micronutrients, may have influenced human evolution in ways greater than previously recognised, according to a new study led by UCL researchers.
08 Sep 2025