ABOUT
Welcome to IRL ChiMP4IC, the leading platform for international research projects dedicated to the protection of chimpanzees and monkeys in Côte d'Ivoire. Founded in 2025, it is building on more than 45 years of research and conservation of chimpanzees in the Taï National Park and more than 20 years of research and conservation of monkeys in Tanoe-Ehy community forest.
The IRL 2041 is a collaboration between the CNRS of France and the CSRS in Côte d'Ivoire.
Our Lab is committed to promoting the conservation of primate species through scientific research, conservation efforts, and community engagement. We provide a comprehensive approach to understanding and safeguarding these endangered animals, working hand in hand with local communities and international partners. Our mission is to ensure the long-term survival of primates and their natural habitats, contributing to the biodiversity and sustainability of our planet.
OUR TEAM
Meet the passionate individuals who drive IRL ChiMP4IC's mission forward.
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Prof. Dr. Inza KONE
UFHB
Unit Director IRL 2041
Prof. Inza KONE is Professor in Conservation Biology at the Université Félix Houphouët-Boigny in Abidjan, General Director of the CSRS and President of the African Primatological Society. His research is committed to understanding primate ecology for their conservation and the protection of biodiversity.
Dr. Roman WITTIG
DR CNRS
Scientific Director IRL 2041
Roman WITTIG is Director of Research at the Institut des Sciences Cognitives in Lyon and Director of the Taï Chimpanzee Project since 2012. His research is committed to understanding the behavioural ecology and cognition of our closest living relatives to understand human evolution.
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Dr. Catherine CROCKFORD DR CNRS
Researcher IRL 2041
Catherine CROCKFORD is Director of Research at the Institut des Sciences Cognitives in Lyon and Co-director of the Taï Chimpanzee Project. She is a specialist in primate communication and cognition and uses her research to understand the evolution of the human mind.
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Dr. Zoro Bertin GONE BI
MC, UFHB
Researcher IRL 2041
Zoro Bertin GONE BI is Maitre de Conference at the Biosciences Faculty at the University Félix Houphouët-Boigny in Abidjan and coordinator of the Taï Chimpanzee Project. His research on the feeding ecology, food plant biology and medical plants of chimpanzees is crucial for our knowledge to protect them.
Mariama BARRY
Program Manager IRL 2041
Mariama BARRY has worked in CSRS for many years before she became program manager for the IRL ChiMP4IC.
Koro VOGT
Project Manager TCP @ IRL 2041
Koro VOGT has a MSc in Biology and joint TCP after several years of experience in different African countries managing the research site in Tai National Park.