Malagasy scientist Lily-Arison René de Roland has been announced as the winner of this year’s Indianapolis Prize, which recognizes “extraordinary contributions to conservation efforts.” In its announcement, Indianapolis Zoo, which presents the award, highlighted René de Roland’s scientific and conservation work that has led to the discovery of several species and the establishment of four national protected areas in Madagascar. “Dr. René de Roland’s community-based models and decades of research have not only alleviated human-wildlife conflicts — they have also helped to conserve Madagascar’s unique and wonderful animals and ecosystems,” Rob Shumaker, president and CEO of Indianapolis Zoo, said in a press release.

Shumaker described René de Roland, the 10th winner of the Indianapolis Prize, as “dedicated, resourceful and a fierce advocate for Madagascar wildlife.” The Indianapolis Prize, dubbed the Nobel Prize for animal conservation, highlights the important work of leading conservationists who protect species and spearhead replicable conservation methods that benefit future generations. Its $250,000 prize is the largest individual monetary award given for animal conservation. René de Roland is the national director of the Madagascar program at The Peregrine Fund, a U.S.-based nonprofit, a position he’s held since 2004. He joined the organization in 1992 as an undergraduate student to study Madagascar’s raptors. Over the decades, he has mentored more than 100 Malagasy students through their graduate degrees, and currently oversees a team of 48 Malagasy conservationists. Chris N. Parish, president and CEO of The Peregrine Fund, said in the release that his organization “is tremendously proud of…This article was originally published on Mongabay