As part of International Day of Women and Girls in Science, we're profiling several RSPB women scientists from our Centre for Conservation Science, asking them what they do, how they got their current jobs and for any tips they have for aspiring scientists.
Dr Jen Smart is a Principal Conservation Scientist, who's based at the University of East Anglia in Norwich.
I lead our scientific work on lowland waders which means I spend a lot of time designing and testing solutions to reduce the effects of predators on our threatened waders. I also play a key role in the outward facing activities of the Centre for Conservation Science.
I started out in practical conservation in the early 90’s working in country parks and nature reserves getting dirty and doing lots of people engagement and environmental education. I became more and more involved in monitoring birds through volunteer surveys and as a ringer so I then returned to education to get a degree in Ecology followed by a PhD at the University of East Anglia (UEA).
I joined the RSPB in 2005 where I have worked through the ranks from contract research positions to the Principal Conservation Scientist role that I do now.
What was your biggest challenge and how did you overcome it?
For many years my biggest challenge has been that I live in deepest, darkest Norfolk - two hours from the RSPB's UKHQ where I was based. For almost 10 years, I worked from home with regular trips to the UKHQ, with one-two nights away from home each time.
For this to work you have to be super disciplined and organised and you have to work hard to maintain that contact with your team and the people you work with. I am now officially based at UEA, where I hold an honorary position and this move has been brilliant for my work life.
Can you tell us your proudest science achievement?
I have four that spring to mind: my PhD, being instrumental in the launch of the RSPB Centre for Conservation Science, winning the RSPB Conservation Scientist of the year award and knowing that the research that my team and I have done and continue to do is having direct impacts on the way land is managed to help breeding waders.
What are your top tips for an aspiring scientist?
Know where you want to go and how you might get there. It won’t be easy and you will probably have to deviate occasionally but having a plan will help you to make the right life decisions. Treat others the way you would like to be treated. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there – get involved in other things and organisations because that’s how you will meet new people and make connections that can last a lifetime.
Are there any female scientists you aspire to/follow on twitter/wish to be more like?
Professor Jenny Gill has been my friend and collaborator for many years, she has an amazing list of scientific achievements, has been a leading player in shaping the direction of the BOU and BTO and has been recognised with awards such as the BTO Marsh award for ornithology in 2010 and the BOU Union Medal in 2017.
BUT most of all she continues to inspire me with the openness with which she shares her time, energy and enthusiasm for science. She is truly a role model for any young scientist.
The fact that every one of her former PhD students have gone on to successful careers in Conservation and Ecology is testament to the effect Jenny has on the people she teaches, supervises and mentors.
Inspired by Jen? Why not read our other profiles of female RSPB Scientists?
For more on our science, check out the RSPB Centre for Conservation Science web pages.