We’re ZSL (Zoological Society of London), an international conservation charity, and our vision is a world where wildlife thrives. We’re working every day to achieve this, through our science, our field conservation around the world and engaging millions of people through our two Zoos, ZSL London and ZSL Whipsnade Zoos.
In 2026 ZSL will be 200 years old, marking two centuries of discovery, pioneering, inspiring and delighting through science, conservation and our two Zoos. However, the challenges facing wildlife are increasing: the rate of extinction is accelerating through habitat loss, disease, the illegal wildlife trade, pollution and other human effects. ZSL needs to act now to address these challenges.
We have developed our strategy – ZSL 200 – to help us better tackle the issues facing wildlife today and adapt to those around the corner. It will focus our efforts and operations, with science informing work in the field and using the Zoos as a focus to drive engagement.
If you are interested in getting involved with ZSL why not volunteer at ZSL London Zoo or ZSL Whipsnade Zoo?
Working for ZSL
The Zoological Society of London (ZSL) is a charity devoted to conservation and education, the worldwide conservation of animals and their habitats being the key role of the organisation.
Our scientists in the laboratory and field, animal management teams at both zoos and our veterinarians contribute wide-ranging skills and experience to both practical conservation and the scientific research that underpins this work.
We are committed to the principle of equal opportunities in employment. We apply policies that are determined solely by job criteria and personal ability.
Volunteering
Volunteer/Volunteer Interns give their time to ZSL because they want to and are not under an obligation to work, as they would be if they were an employee. Volunteering is about mutual agreement rather than contractual obligation to work. Volunteering/Volunteer Internships will normally be undertaken over a number of hours per week and will normally be a supplement to the work of paid ZSL employees.
Like many charitable organisations, we benefit from the assistance and loyal support of volunteers. Over 450 volunteers offer a regular commitment of their time and are an integral part of ZSL, supporting us to achieve our charitable objectives. About 350 are Learning Volunteers, who help enhance the visitors’ day out by providing information, customer service and informal learning activities in the two zoos. The remainder assist staff in the Animal Department, Library, Veterinary Services, and Supporter Services.
Some shorter-term volunteer internship opportunities (normally 3-6 months) are available, to undertake specific projects in departments such as the Institute of Zoology and Conservation Programmes Department. Such projects may be undertaken by students or recent university graduates and in these cases, we take special care to ensure that the individuals are able to gain valuable work experience as well as offer their time and expertise as volunteers.
Academic and Postgraduate Opportunities
The ZSL Institute of Zoology is a partner organisation with a number of NERC Doctoral Training Programmes. We are also interested in discussing PhD opportunities with students who have their own funding arrangements.
