David Emmett is a wildlife biologist with Conservation International’s Indo-Burma program, based in Cambodia. A herpetologist, his work has led to the discovery of several new animal records in this region. David currently dedicates much of his time to the Asian turtle crisis and recently helped publish CI’s Turtle Awareness Calendar. He also enjoys teaching when the opportunity arises. Fueled by his passion for wildlife, David is rapidly becoming one of the relatively few experts on the herpetofauna of Southeast Asia.

Career Path: David earned a bachelor’s degree in zoology from the Imperial College in London, England. He spent two years in Malawi teaching biology and setting up school wildlife clubs across the poorest northern regions. He then lived in the remote Eastern Arc Mountains in Tanzania to survey the area for reptiles and amphibians. This project led to the discovery of several new species, including an endemic cobra. David’s infectious enthusiasm for his study subjects will undoubtedly lead to more new discoveries.