All about Adam's current role:
As an Assistant Ecologist I am involved with various aspects of ecology & environmental science, including:
- Protected species surveys (E.g. Bat Activity/Emergence surveys).
- Habitat Classifications & Mapping (E.g. Phase 1).
- Technical report-writing (Habitat Management Plans or Ecological Appraisals).
- Working with various stakeholders (Landowners, planners, engineers etc).
- Specialist equipment and software (BTO acoustic pipeline).
- Understanding the applications of wildlife legislation and best practice within industry (E.g. Bat Conservation Trust guidelines).
I really enjoy the direct connection to the natural environment when working as an ecologist with protected species surveys, habitat mapping, species IDs and ecological appraisals. I have found it incredibly rewarding to be part of projects which have a real positive impact on the environment, biodiversity and ecosystems within my local community. Also, I’m fascinated to continuously develop my knowledge of the natural environment and understand the species, habitats and ecosystems within it!
All about Adam's Career Path:
Previously, I explored the life sciences and biopharma – given the career opportunities within the UK & Ireland. Whilst I really enjoyed my placement working as a Manufacturing Technology intern I felt I had lost the direct connection to the natural environment, which was one of the main aspects I really enjoyed during the degree.
When I finished my placement and returned to Queen’s, I was still considering the life sciences/biopharma career pathway. However, during my Hons (and then MSci) project I got the opportunity to research an exciting and emergent area of sustainable and environmental microbiology. During this project, I got to explore a fascinating area of microbiology in the context of the environment and microplastic pollution. From this experience, I realised that it was the ecology, biodiversity and environmental side of Biological Sciences which I was most interested in and ultimately the direction I wanted to pursue for future career.
I think the opportunity to explore different career pathways early on (E.g. Bioscience Tour or Placement Year) during the degree are vital for making sure you ‘dip your toe’ into the professional world before deciding on the direction after graduation!
Adam McFall
Assistant Ecologist, Tetra Tech
MSci Biological Sciences with Professional Studies Graduate
