I’ve always had an interest in the biological sciences and a drive to dig further into what interests me, so I’ve ended up with a pretty broad biology background. I did my undergraduate degree at Cambridge, dipping my (proverbial) toes into a wide range of biological subjects, before deciding the interconnected world of ecology was where I was headed. The roles of insects in ecosystems was part of that wider field (although there still are not many specifically insect-focused degrees out there), but my MSc Entomology (then at Imperial College) is really where I nailed my colours to the entomological mast! Subsequent work with NGOs and JNCC got me interested in ecosystem services and the hugely important role of citizen / community science to UK (and global) ecology.
My PhD at Sussex University used citizen science methods to look at pollination ecosystem services in urban environments – mainly in gardens – and let me really flex my outreach skills, as well as bringing together my scientific interests and a lifelong gardening hobby. I’ve continued with this work since; helping set up and work with Sussex University’s Buzz Club; working with charities and science festivals on the more sci-comm end of things; and generally seeking to get involved with as many different community groups as possible, to raise awareness, understanding and appreciation of insects, invertebrates, and all the ways they affect our lives.
I offer talks, workshops, activity sessions (such as bug hunts and pond dipping) for all ages; as well as consultancy for wildlife gardening and citizen/community science projects. These are on their respective website pages – or there is a full spreadsheet of everything here.
Gardens, bugs and science 