The William and Betty MacQuitty Scholarships were established in 1999 in honour of Dr William MacQuitty, acclaimed photographer, author, and film-producer, and his wife Betty, an economist and author who served as Vice-Chairman of UTV. The award is based on the principle that “travel broadens the mind,” and provides financial support to postgraduate students planning to study or conduct research overseas.

Melissa was awarded the scholarship to support her international placement with non-governmental organisation, Para la Tierra in Pilar, Paraguay. Her placement research focused on the relationship between anthropogenic disturbance and the diversity and abundance of herpetofauna (amphibians and reptiles):

“The travel bursary enhanced my master’s studies by allowing me to study both a poorly researched area, in terms of ecology and conservation, and taxonomic group regarding herpetofauna.

Amphibians and reptiles remain one of the least studied groups, despite their unprecedented rates of decline. Such taxa are vital for indicating the health of our ecosystems, with amphibians acting as signposts of aquatic and terrestrial health.”

In addition to her research work, Melissa engaged in environmental education across city eco clubs and rural indigenous schools, even creating a bilingual children’s book in English and Spanish to support local conservation education efforts.

Melissa says the experience has had a lasting impact, both academically and personally:

“My time abroad helped in building self-confidence and resilience. The independence of creating my own project enhanced my self-belief and trust, allowing me to believe in my own passions and capabilities.

Regarding future plans, the experience has cemented my desire to pursue a career in conservation.”

Staff at Para la Tierra are now exploring options to publish her findings, including Melissa’s discovery of a new species record for the area, furthering the impact of her work in conservation science.

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Applications for the William and Betty MacQuitty Scholarship are currently closed, however applications are now open for the Emily Sarah Montgomery Travel Scholarship and Sir Thomas Dixon Travel Scholarship.

The Emily Sarah Montgomery Travel Scholarship supports students registered on a postgraduate programme at Queen’s who wish to travel outside Ireland in connection with research or further education. The Sir Thomas Dixon Travel Scholarship is open to both undergraduate and postgraduate students intending to pursue cultural activities abroad.

Applications and further information can be found on the QUB Scholarship Opportunities Page. The deadline to submit a completed application form and reference is Friday 17 October 2025 at 5pm.