Historic $10 million gift from Irwin Jacobs will help Natural History Museum protect region’s biodiversity

The San Diego Natural History Museum has received one of the largest donations in its history, which the museum says will strengthen its research and conservation work for years to come.

The $10 million gift, from Dr. Irwin Jacobs, will establish the museum’s Joan and Irwin Jacobs Center for Science and Conservation.

“This landmark gift is an investment in our science and in the future of our region,” said Judy Gradwohl, the San Diego Natural History Museum’s president and chief executive officer.

“We are grateful for the opportunity to expand our research and ensure that our region’s biodiversity is studied, resilient, and celebrated for years to come. It boosts our ability to employ new technology, work with partner organizations, and train the next generation of conservation scientists.”

“With this endowment, I hope to ensure that The Nat continues to lead the way in understanding and protecting the incredible biodiversity of our region,” said donor Irwin Jacobs in a statement.

“This is about investing in the future of scientific discovery and research.”

The Natural History Museum was founded in 1874 by a small group of citizen scientists with a focus on environmental preservation. It uses its research collection of nearly 9 million specimens to advance conservation work in Southern California and the Baja California Peninsula.