Interests and expertise
My research focusses on understanding biodiversity outcomes of nature-based solutions. I am particularly interested in exploring the impact of nature-based solutions interventions experimentally and in developing monitoring approaches to capture biodiversity responses within nature-based solutions projects. I provide an ecological and biodiversity focus as part of an interdisciplinary team working on scaling up nature-based solutions in the UK. This will lead onto further research exploring the biodiversity outcomes of restoration efforts in two case study landscapes (Oxfordshire and the central Scottish Highlands) as part of the Leverhulme Centre for Nature Recovery.
Background
I am passionate about finding synergies between conservation projects and scientific research objectives, to develop research projects that benefit practitioners while simultaneously optimising research outputs. My PhD explored the response of biodiversity and ecosystem functions to forest creation, with a focus on native forest creation in the Scottish Highlands, working in collaboration with Trees for Life. I have a background in ecology, completing a BA in Biological Sciences (University of Oxford) and MRes in Ecology & Conservation (Imperial College London). I also have experience of practical implementation of nature-based solutions in the UK, from working on a biodiversity-positive carbon credits scheme at Kent Wildlife Trust.