When did you first become interested in science?

 

 

I have always loved animals and biology. From the age of about 8 I knew I wanted to work with animals. I didn't at that stage know how I would do that though, but the ideas of being a vet or a scientist were always there. I always loved science at school and over the years my passion for animals turned into a even bigger passion for biology and I realised that this was the path for me.

 

 

What path did you take to your career?

 

At High School I studied Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Maths and English. This set me up to study Biological Science at University. I actually started at one university and didn't really like it, so after two years I switched to another one which was a much better fit for me. It added some time to my degree, but it was worth it. After my Bachelors degree, I completed my Honors in Entomology and Ecology. I then went and started working for a commercial genetics company, where I was responsible for conducting genetic testing and analysis as well as case management for private customers. Although it was interesting work, I didn't feel I was contributing much to the world or working towards making it a better place, so I decided to do something I had been dreaming of doing for many years. I started working with elephants. Initially I started working as a volunteer, but I quickly realised that this was what I wanted to be doing and where I wanted to be, so I wrote myself a job description and gave it the Boss and told him to hire me..and he did.

 

What is an average day like in your job?

 

I am the co-ordinator of an Elephant Sanctuary in Thailand, so my job is varied and vast. I co-ordinate all comings and goings within the camp such as Elephants, mahouts (elephant owners and trainers), guests, resident researchers, visiting scientists and volunteers. I conduct my own research into human/elephant conflict as well as help other visiting scientists conduct their research. I chop down trees that have blown over in storms.I help the vet treat wounds. I co-ordinate marketing and PR. I talk to visiting guests to educate them on the situation for elephants around the world. I attend gala dinners, conferences and meetings and talk to people about the situation for elephants around the world. Occasionally I shovel dung! My job is not pure science, there is a lot of science communication and PR involved but that is why I love it. It is the perfect combination for me.

 

What is the best thing that has happened in your job?

 

So many good things happen to me in my job, I get to work with elephants everyday!  One of the best things though would have to be seeing an elephant giving birth, it was definitely a once in a lifetime sort of experience.

 

What advice would you give to a young aspiring scientist?

 

Follow your passion and work hard to obtain your dreams, it may seem like a long hard road at times but there is nothing you can't do if you put your mind to it.