A young primatologist from Assam has earned a place in one of the world’s most competitive wildlife conservation programmes, marking a significant achievement for India’s research community. Dr. Joydeep Shil, a senior researcher with the Primate Research Centre and Conservation Himalayas, has secured a fully funded position in the prestigious Endangered Species Management Graduate Certificate (DESMAN) course under the Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust.
The scholarship covers his tuition, university fees, accommodation at the Durrell Wildlife Hostel in Jersey, and all food expenses during the 12‑week course, beginning February 16, 2026. The programme, validated by the University of Kent, is globally recognised for training future leaders in endangered species recovery.Dr. Shil, who hails from Dhubri, has built his research career around the conservation of Golden langurs and Hoolock gibbons.
His doctoral work at SACON, Coimbatore, explored the feeding ecology and social behaviour of Golden langurs. He has published extensively, presented at international conferences, and worked closely with community conservation groups such as Nature’s Beckon. Durrell officials expressed confidence that the course will enhance his abilities and contribute to India’s growing leadership in wildlife conservation. Experts say his selection brings renewed attention to primate conservation in Northeast India.