IN MEMORIAM MICHAEL W BRUFORD

Michael W Bruford – Mike - was an outstanding scientist and an unforgettable person known to some of us since the early nineties when he became leader of the Conservation Genetics group at the Institute of Zoology (ZSL) in London or from ConGress, back in 2010, a project already focused on putting together geneticists and conservation practitioners. He became a co-chair of the IUCN Species Survival Commission′s Conservation Genetics Specialist Group in 2014, Dean for Environmental Sustainability at Cardiff University in 2019, and was the director of the Frozen Ark project.

From the beginning of his career, Mike was a pioneer in applying molecular genetics to fundamental problems in conservation and it is hard to think of someone equally impressive, smart, and grounded as him.

In G-BiKE, we feel strongly committed to honour Mike’s legacy to the best of our ability. He was a great example of honesty, dialogue, inclusiveness, persistence, and vision for the future. At the global level, many scientists, PhDs, post-docs, and technicians learned from him. Mike changed many researchers’ lives by defining careers with his initiatives and permanent involvement. Across continents, he inspired people about the conservation of wild species and habitats while also being realistic and often quite critical. This gives certainty that his knowledge, accomplishments, students, and intellect are enduring and will continue to exemplify the best in science. We know that G-BiKE was always in his thoughts and close to his heart, and for that, we feel privileged and are very thankful.

The work of Mike in conservation and his vision of bringing together practitioners and scientists will be forever remembered. We shall also not forget his laughter, simplicity, sense of humour, acuity in meetings, love of birdwatching, faithfulness to Welsh teams and culture, and his strong belief in international cooperation and companionship.

Our G-BIKE community will always remember you, Mike.

May his memory rest with us.

Our condolences are with his family and friends