MARINE CONSERVATION
Emily Dow SCIENCE AND EDUCATION OFFICER
Jersey Marine Conservation What does a typical working day involve for you? There is quite a lot of variation for a typical day in this role! As part of the education programme, I am continuously coordinating school events and volunteers to help run our Butterfield Marine Watch Touch Tank, in which we take local rockpool animals into the primary schools and to other public events, including organising our annual World Wetlands Day event. The scientific side involves a lot of planning, research and reports, but the most exciting part is the scuba diving! We dive in locations around the Island, conducting Seasearch surveys, which involved underwater photography and species identification.
it is never too late to change your career if it means doing something you are passionate about, I changed at 30 and it’s the best decision I ever made!
How did you get your job? I actually originally trained and worked as an interior designer/architect, but always had the desire to work in marine conservation and had diving and underwater photography experience already. During covid, I started up a hobby making sea glass jewellery, and wanted to donate to marine conservation. I ended up having a chat with Kevin McIlwee, the founder of JMC. From starting out volunteering, the role developed into the science and education officer! What motivates you in this role? Alongside working for JMC, I am doing a part-time MSc with JICAS, studying Island Biodiversity and Conservation. I’m learning so much more about the threats of climate change and the effects already taking place around the world, the ocean holds many solutions to mitigate these impacts. This continues to motivate me to do what I can to help try to conserve the ocean and the species you find in it! Are there any future skills you will need to learn for your role? There are always more skills to learn! Since starting the role I have already developed an increased knowledge of local marine species and how to work with the challenging diving conditions in Jersey. I hope to continue to develop my underwater photography/videography skills and looking to get my powerboat license soon, plus there is always more diving qualifications and specialities that would be great to do! What are the three most important skills required for your role? Organisation and teamwork are vital skills in this role, as there are several different projects running simultaneously, along with many organisations and volunteers to coordinate and work with! On the scientific side, scuba diving skills and diving experience are key for the Seasearch seabed surveys! What advice would you give someone interested in a career in your profession? Getting involved in volunteering can be a great way to gain experience and get your foot in the door. So, when an opportunity arises, take it! I would also say, it is never too late to change your career if it means doing something you are passionate about, I changed at 30 and it’s the best decision I ever made! Tell us a fun fact Dolphins never fully sleep! Half of their brain always remains alert and awake to enable them to keep breathing, this also helps to keep them safe from potential dangers and predators.
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The Annual Guide to Careers in Jersey
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