Field work studying primate hibernation in Madagascar
By studying wild populations of fat-tailed dwarf lemurs in Madagascar, we gain valuable insights into natural patterns of primate hibernation energetics and body temperature regulation. This fieldwork complements and provides biological relevance to the hibernation research conducted at the DLC. Ultimately, this research offers valuable clues about the potential for inducing hibernation-like states in humans for medical or space exploration purposes. The project cost includes respirometry equipment and supplies, temperature-sensing collars, and round-trip travel to Madagascar and Anjajavy (field site) for the DLC research scientist and a Malagasy Ph.D. student. Funding needed: $33,200.
Specialized equipment needed for DNA or RNA sequences in real-time
Funding needed: $23,000. Thank you to WilBakes Foundation for funding this project!
Specialized equipment needed for fat-tailed dwarf lemur research
At the Duke Lemur Center, we’re pioneering a groundbreaking, non-invasive approach to understanding how dwarf lemurs survive extreme seasonal shifts—especially their ability to hibernate. With just a tiny skin sample, we can grow cells in the lab and study how they respond to temperature changes, revealing how these animals manage energy and stay healthy through both active and dormant seasons. This research not only deepens our understanding of lemur biology but also holds promise for advancing human health—especially in areas like metabolic resilience and energy regulation. Most importantly, it reflects our commitment to ethical science that protects wildlife while driving innovation. Your support will help us acquire the specialized equipment needed to make this research possible—fueling innovation while staying true to our mission of ethical, do-no-harm conservation. Funding needed: $18,000. Thank you to the WilBakes Foundation for funding this project!
Support a Malagasy Ph.D. student
Support the Lemur Center’s annual expense to provide a living wage, housing, travel expenses, and professional development opportunities for a Malagasy Ph.D. student conducting research on hibernating dwarf lemurs at the DLC’s field station in Anjajavy, Madagascar. This project fulfills the requirements of a three-year Ph.D. program in the Department of Zoology and Animal Biodiversity at the University of Antananarivo. Funding needed: $36,000 (three-year commitment) or $12,000 for one year. Thank you to the WilBakes Foundation for funding this project for one year!
