Madagascar Scientist Wins 2025 Indianapolis Prize

Madagascar-based scientist and biodiversity conservationist Dr. Lily-Arison René de Roland has been chosen as the 2025 Winner of the highly esteemed Indianapolis Prize. The Indianapolis Zoo announced the honor for his remarkable achievements in wildlife conservation, especially in his home country of Madagascar, where he has worked for decades to promote the protection of the island nation's endemic species and ecosystems. His pioneering work has brought him recognition on the global stage and makes him a respected figure in worldwide conservation efforts.

Dr. René de Roland has developed the field of animal conservation tremendously through his explorations and studies. He has discovered several new species, made crucial contributions towards the creation of four national parks, and came up with countless community-based conservation programs. His long professional life has also encompassed the establishment and leadership of The Peregrine Fund's Madagascar Program, where he has been National Director since 2004. He leads a staff of 48 Malagasy conservationists that strives to safeguard the nation's remarkable biodiversity, which harbors some of the world's most threatened species. His guidance and vision have contributed to both the environmental and human welfare in the region.

One of his greatest feats was the rediscovery of the Madagascar pochard, a critically endangered duck species that was thought to have become extinct during the 1990s. Dr. René de Roland and his expedition team went on a perilous journey to a far-flung northern area of Madagascar in 2006, where they successfully rediscovered the species, an epic win for science as well as conservation. Besides, he has helped discover two new lemur species in northern Madagascar. His research has had such a lasting impact that in 2021, a recently described wolf spider was named Katableps lilyarisoni in his honor, marking his invaluable contributions to biodiversity research.

Another significant achievement of Dr. René de Roland’s career came in 2022, when he led an expedition to rediscover the Dusky tetraka, a small songbird that had eluded ornithologists for two decades. This success is a testament to his perseverance and expertise in navigating the complex ecosystems of Madagascar. These discoveries, along with many others, reflect his unwavering commitment to uncovering the hidden biodiversity of the island nation.

Aside from his individual success in the profession, Dr. René de Roland has also left a lasting legacy through his on-the-ground conservation work. His efforts have been instrumental in the establishment of four national protected areas in Madagascar, spanning over 1,500 square miles of vital habitats such as rainforests, dry forests, wetlands, mangroves, and savannahs. These protected areas are refuges for Madagascar's endemic wildlife, most of which are directly threatened by habitat loss and human activities. In addition, Dr. René de Roland has collaborated closely with the local communities to provide assurance of the sustainable management of these areas. Through engaging local individuals in conservation activities, he has created a greater sense of relationship between them and the environment, enhancing both the conservation of wildlife and the welfare of the community members.

The impact of Dr. René de Roland is not limited to his own conservation activities, as he has also had a significant role in mentoring the next generation of Malagasy conservationists. With his mentorship, he has guided more than 100 local university students through the process, enabling them to complete 90 master's and 16 doctorates. By doing so, his contributions to their academic and professional lives help his conservation endeavors thrive far into the future since his mentees take on and start their own initiatives and projects.

The Indianapolis Prize is a prestigious honor that rewards the world's top animal conservationists who have recorded notable victories in the pursuit of sustainability for animal species. Dr. René de Roland is the prize's tenth recipient, who is awarded a monetary prize of $250,000, the highest individual prize for animal conservation. The award will be presented officially at the Indianapolis Prize Gala on September 27, 2025, in downtown Indianapolis, where Dr. René de Roland will be honored along with the DeHaan Finalists and the Emerging Conservationist Award Recipient.

Dr. Rob Shumaker, President and CEO of the Indianapolis Zoo, commended Dr. René de Roland's commitment and ingenuity in his relentless pursuit to mitigate human-wildlife conflict and protect Madagascar's diverse biodiversity. He said that Dr. René de Roland's efforts not only safeguarded threatened species but also benefited local communities, making him an exemplary model of effective conservation that harmonizes ecological and human interests.

Looking back on his award, Dr. René de Roland spoke of his profound pride in Madagascar's biodiversity and his affection for its people, whose support and participation are crucial to the success of his conservation efforts. His efforts continue to inspire local and international conservationists alike, solidifying his position as one of the world's foremost voices in the field of environmental conservation.

By his commitment to science, mentorship, and conservation, Dr. Lily-Arison René de Roland has shown that with passion, experience, and partnership, much can be accomplished in protecting the world's most valued natural resources.