New seminar series to explore interdisciplinary approaches in conservation research

Our new seminar series “Conservation Reimagined: Human-nature relations through different lenses” aims at strengthening exchange and collaboration across researchers working in conservation topics at the University of Helsinki.

Last Tuesday 12th of May, we launched a new seminar series organized by the Global Change and Conservation lab. The series aims at showcasing cutting‑edge research on biodiversity conservation and human–nature relations, bringing together researchers from natural sciences, social sciences, humanities, and beyond.

Using a hybrid format and a rotating venue between three campuses (Viikki, Kumpula and City Center), we want to create a platform that fosters dialogue between natural sciences, social sciences and beyond, emphasizing the growing importance of interdisciplinary approaches in conservation research.

The first session was a success, with more than 50 attendees in person and 30 online. Aina Brias‑Guinart opened the session with insights into how recreation cultures evolve in protected areas, while Miquel Torrents‑Ticó shared his work on human–carnivore coexistence in Kenyan pastoral landscapes.

Meri Mononen‑Matias, Doctoral Researcher at the Faculty of Educational Sciences, shared her appreciation:

“Thank you for today's seminar — the presentations […] sparked exactly the kind of interdisciplinary thinking your series is aiming for.”

Others echoed this sentiment. Alizée Ville, Postdoctoral Researcher at the Department of Forest Sciences, commented:

“I attended your recent seminar and found the topics very engaging. I […] really appreciate the initiative to facilitate these discussions across campuses.”

Feedback like this encourages us to continue building a vibrant, interdisciplinary community around conservation research.

With the first session setting an inspiring tone, the seminar series is already fostering new conversations across disciplines. We look forward to continuing this momentum at the next session on 9 June 2026 at Kumpula Campus, where Victoria Peemot and Herizo Andrianandrasana will share insights from their latest research.

After the summer break, the series will return with monthly sessions throughout the autumn, continuing to build a vibrant community around interdisciplinary conservation research.