Mammal Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences (MRI PAS, Poland) – The MRI PAS is an independent scientific research unit of the Polish Academy of Sciences (PAS), shaping the development of mammalogy in Poland since its foundation in 1952 and the only PAS institution in Podlasie region. MRI PAS is located in Białowieża, eastern Poland, in the central part of the last natural European lowland forest – Białowieża Primeval Forest, and close to Białowieża National Park (recognized as UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and World Heritage Site). Research conducted at MRI PAS focuses on mammalian morphology, taxonomy, systematics, evolution, population genetics, ethology, and ecology, with application in wildlife conservation and animal population management. The institute has an extensive zoological collection, comprising about 190.000 mammal specimens, from the yellow-necked mouse to the European bison.
Organizers
Vincent Wildlife Trust, UK
Partnerships
MRI PAS has made significant contributions to knowledge in ecology, physiology, morphology, and evolution of mammals with its long tradition of research on carnivores, including mustelids. Particularly important studies concerned factors influencing population dynamics, interspecies interactions and competition, or adaptation to changing environmental conditions of native and invasive mustelid species. These achievements have established the Institute as an important scientific centre in this field.
Situated in the unique environment of the Białowieża Forest — one of the best-preserved temperate forests in Europe — the Institute provides a stimulating scientific environment and an exceptional natural setting, which serves as an invaluable resource for understanding the functioning of natural ecosystems.