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Stabach, Jared view

Research Ecologist & Head - Conservation Technology & Innovation

Jared Stabach specializes in integrating Earth observation data with animal movement information to better understand how large terrestrial mammals respond to environmental change. He works both domestically and internationally, building strategic scientific partnerships with organizations such as the Giraffe Conservation Foundation to advance conservation science through data-driven research and decision-making.

His research focuses on the factors that influence the abundance, distribution, and movement of large mammals across diverse landscapes. By combining technologies such as GPS tracking, ultra-high-resolution satellite imagery, remote sensing, and advanced analytical tools, he develops innovative approaches to monitor wildlife populations and ecological change. His work aims to improve the accuracy, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness of conservation monitoring, enabling scientists and managers to better track animal movements and population trends over time.

Stabach serves as the terrestrial lead for the Smithsonian’s Movement of Life initiative, which uses animal tracking science to inform conservation action at global scales. He also teaches analytical and quantitative courses designed to build the capacity of the next generation of conservation leaders, equipping students and practitioners with the tools needed to address complex environmental challenges.

Positions

Geographic Focus

Background And Education

Education And Training

Public Biography

  • Jared Stabach is a Research Ecologist and Head of the Center for Conservation Technology & Innovation at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute. He also leads the terrestrial program for the Smithsonian’s Movement of Life Initiative, which advances species conservation through the science of animal tracking. His research examines the factors that influence the abundance, distribution, and movement of large terrestrial mammals, integrating emerging technologies such as GPS tracking collars, unmanned aerial systems, and high-resolution imagery to better understand and monitor how wildlife populations are responding to rapid environmental change.

    Since joining the Smithsonian as a postdoctoral research fellow in 2015, Jared has helped lead collaborative conservation efforts across Africa and beyond. His work has supported the reintroduction of the scimitar-horned oryx, evaluated factors influencing the occurrence and persistence of critically endangered addax, and contributed to scientific research focused on developing innovative solutions to pressing conservation challenges.

    Jared maintains a long-term scientific partnership with the Giraffe Conservation Foundation, investigating the ecological and human-driven factors contributing to the decline of giraffe populations across Africa. He also studies the migration ecology of white-bearded wildebeest, one of the world’s most remarkable wildlife migrations. His broader research combines advanced tracking technologies, remote sensing, and data science to generate actionable insights that inform wildlife management and conservation policy.

    He serves as a scientific advisor to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Giraffe & Okapi Specialist Group and the Sahara-Sahel Interest Group, and is a member of the Smithsonian’s Animal Care and Use Research Subcommittee.

Publications

Selected Publications

Contact

Location

Mailing Address

  • 1500 Remount Road

    MRC 5530

    Front Royal

    Virginia

    22630

    United Stabach