Liam Crowley
I have had a great experience on placement with the GWCT. I received many opportunities to get involved with in range of different areas of conservation science; more than I ever dreamed I could in just one year! From insect ID to literature reviews, chasing woodcock through fields in the dead of night to a 4x4 driving course, it’s been fantastic, picking up and developing a range of skills along the way. Being provided with accommodation within the beautiful grounds as well has really helped to make this year so special and enjoyable!
Jack Buckingham
My year at the GWCT as the Lowland Gamebird Research student has been great. My time has been focused around radio-tracking an experimental population of pheasants in order to document their dispersal, fate and breeding success as part of an animal behaviour PhD. I have also improved my skills in GIS, using it to map the movements of the birds. I have made some really good friends with other students and staff, and excellent contacts within the industry.
Lucy Coals
I gained invaluable skills and experience through my GIS placement at the GWCT. It was such a great year for so many different reasons, from working with experts to living in the New Forest. I had the opportunity to work in the field as well as conduct office-based research. I met some inspiring staff that were so friendly, welcoming and supportive and formed strong friendships from living with the other students. I would definitely recommend this placement for students interested in ecological research.
Tom Elliott
As one of the Farmland Ecology Unit students, I’ve been presented with tonnes of new challenges which don’t really occur whilst at university. From learning how not to get the 4x4 stuck in a farm-track bog, to longer-term training and surveying of insect and floral identification, the placement has been a highly variable and thus exciting experience. The insight into how a top ecological research organisation works has been truly invaluable, and you really do feel like a significant part of the team. I’ve absolutely loved my time at the GWCT, and couldn’t ask to live in a more picturesque setting.