The mission of the Cedar Tree Foundation, founded by Dr. David H. Smith, is to support environmental protection and improvement through a variety of initiatives, including the funding of the David H. Smith Conservation Research Fellowship. This Fellowship emphasizes the importance of applied post-doctoral research in conservation science, aiming to develop future leaders in the field who are well-equipped to address pressing conservation challenges through innovative research, partnerships, and application of scientific knowledge to real-world issues.
The David H. Smith Conservation Research Fellowship focuses on advancing conservation science by providing two years of support for applied research in conservation biology and closely related fields to outstanding early-career scientists. The program aims to strengthen the Fellows' skills in applied research, training, peer networking, and field learning experiences. Specific goals include building productive partnerships with conservation practitioners, contributing scientific knowledge to conservation issues, leading the future of conservation biology through cutting-edge research, and developing world leaders in conservation through mentorship and coalition building. The research and activities of the Smith Fellows should focus on areas of critical importance to conservation in the United States, encouraging the integration of science and theory with policy and management. Fellows are matched with both an academic mentor for their continued development and a practitioner mentor to connect research with practical conservation challenges. This program seeks high-potential individuals willing to take risks for significant change and leadership in conservation science.