Matthew Emslie-Smith is a conservation biologist whose interests lie in the science-policy interface. Holding a masters degree in conservation science & policy from the University of Exeter and a BSc Zoology from the University of St Andrews, Matthew has been living and working in Bishkek since April 2017. Current work includes continued development of the Lapis Guides ‘citizen science’ smartphone app, which can contribute to many conservation and development objectives, and supporting community development and co-management of protected areas in Central Asia.