"Jane Goodall is a role model in how scientists can have sociological impact. Her coming to Iceland and the programme around that will inspire the scientific community in how to use our knowledge for the common good,” says Bryndís Marteinsdóttir, Post-doc at the University of Iceland’s Institute of Life and Environmental Sciences, about one of the most respected and beloved scientist in the world, who will be in Iceland from 12 to 16 June. A part of her programme is an open lecture on 15 June at 5 p.m. in the University Cinema (Háskólabíó).
Dr. Jane Goodall‘s visit is a collaboration between:
- the Institute of International Affairs
- Institute of Life and Environmental Sciences
- The Institute for Sustainable Studies
- Environment and Natural Resources – an interdisciplinary graduate programme
- UNU-LRT – United Nations University – Land Restoration Training Programme
- Icelandic Environment Association
- Biologia in Iceland
- Vakandi
Dr. Jane Goodall first became famous for her pioneer research on chimpanzees in the late fifties. “Goodall’s research changed the relationships between man and ape. She discovered all kinds of characteristics previously attributed only to humans such as organisational skills, compassion, symbiosis, happy dancing, and teaching. Her research in the Gombe National Park in Tanzania showed that chimpanzees can build things and use tools, and that they hunt for food,” Bryndís Marteinsdóttir says about Goodall’s achievements.
“Her methods were considered revolutionary and the science community was not impressed. It was considered inappropriate that she named the animals instead of giving them numbers and that she saw them as intelligent emotional beings with their own personality. But she held her course despite adversity, and was awarded a doctoral degree for her work without having studied at a University,” says Rannveig Magnúsdóttir, Project Manager at the Icelandic Environment Association.
The biggest name in conservation worldwide
Goodall has been active in the battle for conservation, animal welfare and the earth as a whole; especially through The Jane Goodall Institute. She was appointed to serve as a United Nations Messenger of Peace and gives lectures all over the world where she emphasizes wildlife conservation.
It is a great honour for the University to have Jane Goodall as a public speaker. “I urge everyone to show up and listen to this remarkable woman talk about the challenges in conservation on 15 June in the University Cinema. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity,” says Bryndís Marteinsdóttir. Dr. Goodall will furthermore meet with graduate students at the University of Iceland, children that participate in the eco-schools, and students at the University of the Young.
“Jane is both radiant and energetic despite her age and her passion for nature and her sense of humour has not diminished. She is one of the most popular lecturers in the world and travels over 300 days a year to talk to people about environmental issues. It is thus a privilege to get to listen to her in person here in the University Cinema. This is a unique event that will leave no one untouched,” concludes Rannveig Magnúsdóttir.
Admission is free and open to all.