Prizes

Emily completed the MSc Conservation Science and Practice at Imperial in September 2024. Her thesis researched the impact of coastal development on the nesting behaviour and hatch success of green and loggerhead sea turtles. The project was conducted in collaboration with the Cayman Islands Department of Environment and has provided important insight into the behaviours of two keystone species, specifically highlighting how increasing development in island states is an ever growing risk to their surrounding marine habitats.

The report was able to provide recommendations applicable to the Cayman Islands in the management of their coastal development/ecological interconnectivity, and methodologies that could be customised to other island nations. Emily now holds a job and contributes to the efforts of the United Nations Environment Programme World Conservation Monitoring Centre (UNEP-WCMC).

“I am incredibly excited to have been awarded this prize. The MSc has allowed me to explore a variety of topics I am deeply passionate about and I have enjoyed every second of learning. I feel I am ready to go out into the world and make real change happen. I must express my thanks to Dr Thomas J Creedy and the other course leaders for their continued support and for instilling so much knowledge and confidence in me as a conservation scientist. Also, Dr Jane Hardwick for her expertise throughout the thesis process. Finally, my fellow students: I have never met a group of more inspiring and passionate young people. I can’t wait to see us all change the world”

Will graduated recently from the MSc Conscience and Practice. He volunteers part-time with the Global Rewilding Alliance and is a Trustee of Natural Neighbours. His thesis explored the impact of Iron-Age pig rooting on woodland arthropods and birds at Wilder Blean, Kent.  Prior to joining Imperial, he worked in sustainability consultancy and waste management, successfully influencing corporations to place the natural world at the heart of decision-making.

"I am delighted to have been awarded the MSc in Conservation Science and Practice: Best Student prize. I am hugely grateful to my supervisor Thomas Creedy, the Natural History Museum, the Kent Wildlife Trust and Cameron Bespolka Trust, without whom my thesis project would not have been possible."