The Wildlife Forensic Academy
— Cape Town, South Africa
Laker Wildlife Initiative
— Clayton State University, Georgia, United States of America
Wildlife Forensic Academy and Clayton State University Forge Global Partnership to Advance Wildlife Crime Investigation
The Wildlife Forensic Academy (South Africa) has entered into a landmark partnership with Clayton State University (Georgia, USA). This collaboration is designed to strengthen education, training, and research in wildlife forensics and conservation sciences, with a shared mission to advance innovation, knowledge, and global action against wildlife crime.
On September 17th 2025, a Memorandum of Understanding was officially signed between the WFA and the President of Clayton State University, marking the formal launch of this global initiative.
The agreement outlines a phased approach, beginning with joint curriculum development, professional training, and faculty exchange programs. Over time, the partnership will expand to include student exchange opportunities, collaborative research projects, and shared access to academic resources. Future plans envision the establishment of a U.S.-based Wildlife Forensic Academy site, underscoring the long-term commitment of both institutions to protecting biodiversity and equipping the next generation of conservation professionals.
Study abroad programs between the two institutions will commence immediately, as well as the opportunity for students to apply through Clayton State University for course credits. Courses offered through the academy aim to provide students with hands-on, cross-cultural experiences in wildlife forensics. More information on these programs will be shared in an upcoming post.
Together, the Wildlife Forensic Academy and Clayton State University are uniting science, law, and ethics to prepare globally competent leaders who can address the growing challenges of wildlife crime and conservation in an interconnected world
In September, representatives from the Academy had the privilege of travelling to Clayton State University in Atlanta to participate in the Laker Wildlife Initiative Summit - an event dedicated to fostering collaboration and innovation in wildlife conservation, forensics, and law enforcement.
Day 1 of the summit, held in the Student Activity Center Ballroom, with keynote speaker Jessica Rock (State Resource Prosecutor, Animal Crimes; Prosecuting Attorney’s Council of Georgia). The Academy’s co-founders, Dr. Greg Simpson and Andro Vos presented on the challenges of illegal wildlife poaching, trafficking, and trade. Their session highlighted the Academy’s ongoing mission to strengthen education and capacity building in the fields of wildlife forensics and prosecution.
Also on Day 1, Georgio Mosis (Director of Digital Transformation, AethiQs) delivered an engaging talk on the application of artificial intelligence in crime scene investigation, exploring emerging technologies that can enhance evidence analysis and case outcomes.
Day 2 featured a dynamic series of workshops and interactive field sessions, including:
A joint presentation by Gabe Wigtil (Program Director, Wildlife Trafficking at Humane World for Animals) and Jessica Rock;
A technology demonstration by Georgio Mosis, showcasing how 3D-printed materials and GPTs can assist in the identification and assessment of illicit wildlife products at border control points;
A wildlife veterinary necropsy session led by Dr. Greg Simpson; and
An outdoor mock crime scene workshop facilitated by Dr. Andrea Allen (Clayton State University).
The summit brought together a diverse audience of students, university faculty, law enforcement officers, veterinarians, legal professionals, and wildlife advocates, all united by a shared commitment to advancing wildlife protection and justice.
The event concluded with a gala evening titled “Into the Wild: A Forensic Fête”, hosted in partnership with the Laker Wildlife Initiative. The gala brought together passionate individuals dedicated to the advancement of wildlife forensics and conservation, with a palpable sense of energy and commitment throughout the evening. Several fundraising initiatives and auctions were held to raise funds in support of ranger training at the Academy - a cause that directly contributes to strengthening frontline wildlife protection efforts and wildlife crime prosecution rates.
During the gala, the Atlanta Zoo was honoured with the inaugural Wildlife Protector of the Year Award, recognizing its unwavering dedication to education, research, and wildlife conservation.
The Academy extends its sincere appreciation to Clayton State University and the Laker Wildlife Initiative for the opportunity to contribute to this impactful event and to engage with such a passionate and multidisciplinary community.
