What qualifications do you have?
MSci in Oceanography (1st)
How did you get into ecology/environmental work?
A passion for the outdoors and environment and wanting to conserve it. I started my career volunteering as an offshore scientist on 6-week research cruises, carrying out sampling and measurements of physical and biogeochemical parameters across the North Atlantic. I then joined a metocean consultancy, delivering and managing large modelling and monitoring projects across the world, from deploying current moorings in the North Sea to modelling design criteria projects for platforms in the Indian Ocean. My marine monitoring and assessment experience allowed me to apply this knowledge to a freshwater environment and join the UK Centre of Ecology and Hydrology as a Hydrologist. I had a very diverse research role over 5-years, which included providing hydrometry training, lab management, running a data advisory group, national river flow archive representative and co-ordinating large multidisciplinary fieldwork projects in the UK and overseas, with a focus on Natural Flood Management and Nature Based Solutions.
When did you join Thomson EC?
September 2022.
How many years of relevant industry experience do you have?
14.
Can you describe your position at Thomson EC? What does a typical day like?
There’s no such thing as a typical day, which is why I love it! Every project is different, and we cover a range of hydroecological and water quality deliverables; from onsite monitoring and surveys, through assessments (nutrient neutrality, flood risk, HRA, WFD, BNG) to consent applications. I enjoy developing a scope and working with clients to make sure their needs are met and their project is delivered smoothly.
Are there any relevant subject matters you are passionate about?
Enabling working with natural processes and nature based solutions to provide natural flood management, biodiversity benefits and water quality improvements while also offering social and economic benefits. This approach is the key to future sustainable and resilient developments and infrastructure, so that we can thrive alongside healthy ecosystems.
What is your proudest achievement/career highlight at Thomson?
We recently completed a Thames floodplain restoration project for a complex wetland site in Richmond. The site is an active floodplain driven by tidal, groundwater and surface water influences. The data collected from our hydrological monitoring scheme was used to better understand the current, and model the future, hydrological functioning of the site. This information was essential for making decisions on how best to restore the wetlands and enhance its ability to store flood waters.
Do you have any hobbies and interests outside work?
I enjoy any activities that keep me exploring outdoors, whether it’s trail running, swimming, skiing, sailing or scuba diving, but most of the time you’ll find me on my mountain bike in the woods with my dogs!
Why should individuals/organisations choose to work with Thomson EC?
The depth and breadth of experience and knowledge at Thomson is fantastic. Close collaboration with professionals across terrestrial and aquatic ecology, hydrology, marine, arboriculture and habitats specialisms allows us to deliver high-quality, evidence-based solutions unpinned by a deep understanding of legislative requirements and practical understanding of development alongside the environment.
Contact us today to find out more about our projects.
