Bridging the research--implementation gap

Graduate students in conservation biology: Bridging the research–implementation gap

Jason R. Courter, Biological conservation Pages 62-64 Volume 20, Issue 1

There is no denying the fact that there is a chasm between precept and practice when it comes to academic research and the practice in the field by mangers.

In this paper the researcher review common recommendations for bridging the Research–Implementation Gap in conservation biology, highlight the unique abilities of graduate students to contribute solutions to this problem, and propose ways research institutions and professionals can encourage graduate students to participate in this process.

While many may argue that the main purpose of graduate school is to focus on research, the researcher  argue that being exposed early to the broader issues of research and implementation enhances the graduate research experience, helps train students to become leaders in conservation science, and contributes both immediate and long-term solutions to the research–implementation problem.

On the whole this paper is very thought provoking and deserves a look in to.