Celine Gamble

Current Employer/Organisation Name

The Zoological Society of London (ZSL) & The University of Portsmouth

What have you been doing since leaving Exeter, and what are you doing now?

Since graduating from a MSc in Biodiversity and Conservation from the University of Exeter, I have worked within the Engagement team of the British Science Association. During which I worked on the annual British Science Festival as a Festival Officer. More recently I have started working for the Zoological Society of London (ZSL) in their Marine and Freshwater Department as a Project Coordinator for the newly formed Native Oyster Network (UK and Ireland). I’m very much enjoying the role so far, as it is a good combination of conservation science and policy, networking, fieldwork and science communication.

Why did you choose this career? And what do you enjoy most about your work?

I have always wanted to pursue a career in marine conservation, and during university I was drawn towards communicating science. Therefore a role where I can combine the two is perfect for me. The most enjoyable aspect of my current role is having the opportunity to visit native oyster restoration projects across the UK and Ireland, and be able to get out on the boat and assist with their fieldwork.

What did you enjoy most about studying here?

I enjoyed studying at the University of Exeter firstly due to the amazing location of the Cornwall campus, with access to marine coastal habitat on its doorstep. And secondly due to the support and expertise of the lecturers in the Bioscience department.

Why did you choose to study at Exeter?

I completed my undergraduate Zoology BSc at the University of Exeter, and I was initially drawn to Exeter due to the course content and degrees on offer.

What skills and experiences have been most useful for your career?

I would say that being involved with extra-curricular opportunities, such as university societies and groups, helped build my independent working and confidence when delivering a project. I also found that modules such as Science in Society and Exploitation of the Sea, have been useful in terms of the science communication route that I’ve pursued.

What advice would you give to a current student who wishes to pursue your career?

The advice I would give to a current student, would be to throw yourself into extra-curricular opportunities and to research opportunities to volunteer for projects/ organisations that you’d hope to work for in the future. I would also say, don’t hold back from getting in touch with individuals who work in roles you’d like to see yourself in, as 9/10 times they will be more than happy to provide advice.

What are your plans for the future?

My current contract is for two years, after which I would hope to move into a manager role within a similar marine conservation project or organisation.