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As a woman in conservation, Gina Della Togna, a member of the Mohamed bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund Advisory Board, has navigated numerous stereotypes throughout her journey.

An exceptional researcher and conservationist, she serves as the Executive Director of the Amphibian Survival Alliance and is also a Research Associate at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute. We had the opportunity to catch up with her to learn more about her inspiring conservation journey and discuss the latest MBZ Fund Dolphin Energy Chairman’s Award, focusing on the Axolotl.

Editor:  Could you share a little about your background and journey?

Gina Dela Togna:  As you see from the introduction, I’m the Executive Director of the Amphibian Survival Alliance and a Research Associate at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute. I earned my Ph.D. in Biological Sciences, specializing in Molecular and Cell Biology, from the University of Maryland, USA. My work has primarily focused on the reproductive biology of amphibians, with an emphasis on developing Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ARTs) for endangered species facing reproductive challenges.

Since 2017, I have served as co-Chair of the IUCN SSC Amphibian Specialist Group ARTs and Biobanking Working Group and co-authored the Amphibian Conservation Action Plan (ACAP). I am also part of the IUCN SSC ASG Atelopus Task Force and the Atelopus Survival Initiative, where I co-chair the Ex-Situ Working Group. Additionally, I contribute to the Advisory Boards of the Mohamed bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund and Re:wild’s Fonseca Species Conservation Fund and serve on the 2024-2032 Executive Committee of the World Congress of Herpetology.

ED: Oh wow, that is an incredible track record.  Have you faced any obstacles along the way?

GDT:  Absolutely, my journey has been both rewarding and challenging. As a Latin American woman, I have faced and had to overcome stereotypes while navigating my path in conservation. Along the way, I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with incredible individuals who have inspired and supported my work. These experiences have shaped me into the professional and mentor I am today, committed to driving forward initiatives that safeguard amphibian populations.

ED:   What sparked your passion for amphibians?

GDT:  My passion for amphibians stems from their incredible biodiversity, their essential role in ecosystems, a lifelong fascination with nature and a deep curiosity about how natural systems function. From a young age, I knew I wanted to study life, which naturally led me to pursue a career in biology. Growing up in Panama, I was surrounded by amphibians—they were a constant presence in backyards, on streets, and filling the night with their calls. However, over time, their numbers began to dwindle, and the once-vibrant nights became quieter.

When I began my Ph.D. in 2008, it was just a few years after the first Amphibian Conservation Summit in 2005, where the initial Amphibian Conservation Action Plan was conceptualized. At the time, there was an important need to develop and implement conservation strategies based on the first ACAP. At the same time, Panama was grappling with the devastating effects of the fungal disease Chytridiomycosis, which had a catastrophic impact on amphibian populations, including one of our national symbols, the Panamanian Golden Frog, which is currently believed to be extinct in the wild. Witnessing this crisis firsthand deeply influenced my commitment to amphibian conservation.

My passion is fuelled by the urgent need to address the threats they face. I am dedicated to a lifelong mission of promoting amphibian conservation, mitigating the extinction crisis, and working tirelessly to help these extraordinary creatures thrive once again.