Dave Ireland

A highly sought-after speaker and educator with over 17 years experience studying, conducting research, teaching and working in conservation biology and ecology, Dave Ireland's ability to connect biodiversity discovery and conservation to human sustainable development has inspired many people and groups to action. As Managing Director, Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) Biodiversity, Dave Ireland is responsible for sharing and making relevant ROM collections and research with the museum's diverse audiences.   

Dave's formal education includes a Masters in Science (Ecology) degree from Trent University and a Bachelors of Science (Biology) degree from Mount Allison University. He has instructed courses in community ecology, conservation biology and environmental resource management. He was previously the curator of conservation and environment at the Toronto Zoo and the staff biologist and curator of wolves at Haliburton Forest and Wildlife Reserve.

An avid global traveller, Dave has experienced cultures in North and Central America, western Europe, southern Africa and much of southeast Asia. Growing up in Huntsville Ontario, the gateway to Algonquin Park, Dave Ireland spent many years leading canoe trips, sharing his knowledge and passion for the conservation of nature with children, young adults and international tourists.