Extinction risk refers to the likelihood that a species will become extinct in the near future. This field of research involves studying the factors that contribute to the decline and potential extinction of species, such as habitat loss, climate change, pollution, and overhunting. Researchers in this area work to assess and predict the risk of extinction for different species, as well as to develop strategies for conservation and management to prevent extinction. The ultimate goal of extinction risk research is to understand and mitigate the threats facing vulnerable species in order to protect global biodiversity.