The Tasmanian tiger was declared extinct in 1936. Now, scientists in Melbourne have begun attempts to bring the extinct animal back to life. A research laboratory for the conservation and potential resurrection of marsupials has been established at the local university, following the receipt of a €3.4m grant.

“Thanks to this generous donation, we have started to develop the capabilities and technologies that could potentially return extinct species to the wild, as well as help protect and conserve other marsupials,” stated Professor A. Pask from the university's School of BioSciences.

The generous donation will be used to create the Thylacine Integrated Genetic Restoration Research (TIGRR) lab (Thylacine Integrated Genetic Restoration Research (TIGRR)), developing technologies that could help bring the tiger back from extinction.

Tasmanian tigers once lived and roamed across Australia, until European settlers eventually drove them out, starting in the 18th century, through very active hunting.
Photo: Torsten Blackwood AFP