Celebrating Women in Science: Abbie & Isa’s journeys
Hi, I’m Abbie, a passionate Environmental Scientist with a love for the great outdoors and a drive to make a positive impact on our planet. This International Day of Women and Girls in Science, I wanted to share a bit about my journey into the world of ecology and conservation, and my current role as ReConnect Engagement officer at Groundwork.
It all started with my degree in Environmental Science at Newcastle University, where I discovered my fascination with the intricate connections between ecosystems and the role we play in protecting them. From conducting methane gas sampling at a dairy farm to exploring intertidal rocky shores for my dissertation, I gained hands-on experience in both the field and the lab. These experiences ignited a passion that’s only grown stronger.
Now, in my role with Groundwork, I get to combine my love of nature with practical action and community engagement. My days often involve trekking across diverse habitats, conducting conservation activities, and mapping data points with GIS. At the same time I organise community workshops and events to get people excited about their local landscape and educate about nature based solutions.
What I love most about my job is its purpose. Working with Groundwork means being part of something bigger—helping communities and the environment thrive together. There’s nothing quite like knowing your work is making a tangible difference, whether it’s monitoring a nature restoration project or delivering an engagement event.
For me, being a woman in science isn’t just about working in the field; it’s about inspiring others to take action to better the environment and explore their passions. There is so much work to be done and so to anyone considering a career in ecology or conservation: go for it. The world needs your curiosity, your skills, and your voice!
Here’s to more women in science, protecting our planet and shaping a sustainable future.
Hi, I’m Isa, and on this International Day of Women and Girls in Science, I reflect on my journey in conservation and ecology, and hope to inspire more girls and women to follow their passion for science and the outdoors.
I’ve always had a deep love for wildlife and nature, spending as much time outside as possible. After studying Ecology and Environment at the University of Liverpool, I was fortunate to embark on a traineeship as a Conservation and Access Trainee at Dartmoor National Park in Devon. This experience allowed me to work in a hands-on conservation role and sparked my love for practical habitat management.
I went on to work as a seasonal ranger on the Farne Islands for the National Trust, where I discovered a particular interest in seabird monitoring and in the research side of conservation. This led me to my current role as a Habitat Monitoring Officer with Groundwork North East and Cumbria. I’m privileged to work outdoors in varied environments, from estuary edges to restored farmland. On a typical day with Groundwork, I could be taking soil core samples from floodplain meadows, measuring the circumference of an oak tree to understand its response to particular climate stresses, or carrying out a vegetation survey within a species-rich grassland. I absolutely love being part of a team which collects valuable data that helps us understand how our projects are boosting biodiversity in the region.
While parts of the conservation field, especially ranger work, have been male-dominated, it’s exciting to see women increasingly making their mark. Together, we’re changing the landscape of conservation science and making it more inclusive. My message to young girls and women thinking about a career in this field: don’t be intimidated. There is always room for you, and the impact you can have is huge.
This International Day of Women and Girls in Science, I hope my journey shows that with passion, perseverance, and a love for nature, you can break barriers and make a difference in the world of conservation.
