WildCRU and Animal Vibration Lab recognised in Oxford VC Awards 2026

Congratulations to two of our research groups, the Wildlife Conservation Research Unit (WildCRU) and the Animal Vibration Lab, who have been recognised in the University of Oxford’s Vice-Chancellor’s Awards.

WildCRU won the Making a Difference Globally Award, which recognises colleagues who have made a difference to the lives of those outside the UK through University resources, expertise or insights. The group were recognised for sharing Oxford expertise globally to build local capacity, support equitable livelihoods, strengthen policy, and improve coexistence between people and wildlife.

Professor Amy Dickman, Director of WildCRU, says:

"I am so thrilled that our amazing team has received a Vice Chancellor's Award. Our work involves so many diverse people, including researchers, support staff, field teams, students, donors and others, and it was wonderful to have that collective commitment recognised at the highest level in the University. The Awards showcased such incredible work being done across Oxford and far beyond, and we felt both humbled and honoured to be part of it."

The Animal Vibration Lab were shortlisted for the Research Engagement Award, which recognises those who have enriched their research through engaging with those outside the University, for the benefits of wider society. The group were recognised for Seismic Senses, an immersive exhibit at the Royal Society Summer Science Exhibition 2025 where visitors could feel real vibration recordings from elephant and spider communication. 

There were nearly 170 award entries across the 13 categories this year, with more than 1,000 individuals included in the nominations. They were assessed by stream judging panels made up of colleagues from across the central University, divisions, colleges and GLAM. The winners were announced at a special ceremony hosted by the Vice-Chancellor at the new Schwarzman Centre for the Humanities on Thursday 4 June.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Irene Tracy presenting an award to a group of researchers in WildCRU

Image: John Cairns