About
Our Vision
The Conservation Genetics Specialist Group will make the importance and relevance of genetic diversity and the science that underpins it more visible and increase its impact and application within IUCN and worldwide.
Our Mission
The Conservation Genetics Specialist Group (CGSG) will establish guidance for pressing genetic policy and management issues. CGSG also provides genetic advice on policy and management within IUCN’s Species Survival Commission (SSC) and expert knowledge and assistance to SSC specialist groups. CGSG will facilitate a fuller appreciation, evaluation and conservation of genetic diversity and resources at all levels, providing a forum for all stakeholders to value and conserve this crucial element of Planet Earth’s lifesystems.
Partnership with the Coalition for Conservation Genetics
The CGSG is a member partner of the Coalition for Conservation Genetics (CCG), a global alliance strengthening the role of genetic information in biodiversity conservation. Through this partnership, CGSG collaborates worldwide to promote the generation, use, and long-term monitoring of genetic diversity as a core element of conservation practice.
As part of the Coalition, CGSG contributes expertise in conservation genetics, supports the development of global genetic diversity indicators, and participates in coordinated efforts to build capacity, harmonize methodologies, and link science and policy. The partnership also enables shared learning through webinars, technical exchanges, and cross-network collaboration.
Together with other CCG partners, CGSG advances a unified vision to ensure genetic diversity is conserved within species, among populations, and across landscapes, integrated into decision-making, and recognized as essential to global biodiversity goals.
Membership
The CGSG brings together conservation geneticists and genomic experts from around the world to advance the application of genetic knowledge to conservation practice. We welcome interest from dedicated individuals working in this field. Our membership philosophy emphasises active participation, collaboration, and respect, while striving for diversity across regions, relevant expertise, and career stages. While membership is by invitation, new colleagues may become involved as Associate Members and can be considered for full CGSG membership after a year of engagement. If you’d like to learn more about getting involved, please reach out to us for further information.
