Charles Agbor Emogor

Charles Emogor integrates ecology, social science and technology to address pertinent conservation challenges in Africa. He is interested in understanding and mitigating threats to wildlife and developing innovative, cost-effective and equitable approaches to improve conservation outcomes.

As founder and executive director of Pangolin Protection Network and a researcher at the University of Cambridge, Charles has led important studies on African pangolins on the social and economic drivers of their exploitation. His work has challenged prevailing assumptions about the drivers of the pangolin trade and highlighted the importance of local food systems, livelihoods and cultural contexts in shaping wildlife use. More recently, he is combining conservation science with emerging technologies, including biologging, remote sensing and artificial intelligence, to enhance the effectiveness of ranger patrols in protected areas across Africa. Charles is particularly interested in ensuring that conservation solutions are designed and led by African researchers and communities.

Beyond his research, he has built partnerships among hunters, traders, government agencies and local communities to translate scientific findings into practical conservation action. Similarly, through the Pangolin Protection Network, he has established training and mentorship opportunities for early-career African conservationists, helping strengthen local capacity for conservation research and leadership.