Honorary disctinction: Dr Edward E. Louis receives the title of Doctor Honoris Causa
On Tuesday, March 31, 2026, the University of Antananarivo awarded Dr Edward E. Louis Jr. the prestigious title of Honorary Doctor (Doctor Honoris Causa). He is the General Director of the NGO Madagascar Biodiversity Partnership, a geneticist with a PhD in molecular genetics and a veterinary degree. This award recognizes more than two decades of his work protecting Madagascar’s biodiversity.
A career dedicated to science and biodiversity
Born in the United States, Dr Louis began his research in Madagascar in 1998. His work focused on building genetic databases and studying the distribution of plants and animals, especially lemurs. Over the years, he collaborated with many well-known international researchers, greatly improving scientific knowledge about lemurs.
His achievements include:
- Discovering 21 new lemurs
- Reintroducing 2 species that has been extincted locally
- Training over 100 Malagasy students (Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD)
- Publishing 292 scientific works (mostly about Madagascar)
- Securing 185 research and conservation grants
In 2010, he founded the NGO Madagascar Biodiversity Partnership (MBP), with the vision of “connecting the world.” The organization combines research, conservation, and education across several sites in Madagascar.
MBP works on forest restoration and conservation programs, focusing on species like the aye-aye, sifaka, and bamboo lemur. These sites also host researchers, volunteers, and visitors.
A well-deserved recognition
For over 25 years, Dr Edward E. Louis Jr. has been deeply involved in scientific research and lemur conservation in Madagascar. With this award, he joins a small group of foreign researchers who have made a lasting impact on the country’s scientific development.
