Charles Darwin Research Station

The objectives of the CDRS is to conduct scientific research and environmental education for conservation. The Station has a team of over a hundred scientists, educators, volunteers, research students, and support staff from all over the world.[2]

Scientific research and monitoring projects are conducted at the CDRS in conjunction and cooperation with its chief partner, the Galápagos National Park Directorate (GNPD), which functions as the principal government authority in charge of conservation and natural resource issues in the Galapagos.

The work of the CDRS has as its main objectives:

• To promote, facilitate, design, and implement the scientific investigation necessary for the understanding of biological principles, better understanding of ecosystems, and adequate management of the islands’ natural resources.
• To advise the Ecuadorian authorities on the subject of conservation and management of natural resources in the Galapagos Islands.
• To collaborate with Ecuadorian institutions on the implementation of programs involved in scientific investigation and education on the islands.
• To contribute to the development of scientific and technical personnel from Ecuador who are specialized in natural sciences and natural resource management.
• To contribute and collaborate on educational programs related to the conservation of the islands.
• To compile the results of the scientific investigations and the other activities of the organization and to disseminate this information regionally, nationally, and internationally.

In 2002, the Station was awarded the International Cosmos Prize.