BSc Graduate in Focus: Roger Auster

We are looking back on some of our BSc graduates who have excelled in scientific research, ecology and conservation around the world since studying with us.

Today we meet Roger who graduated from BSc Zoology in 2014 and is now a Final-year PhD student at the University of Exeter investigating the ‘Human dimensions of reintroducing Eurasian beaver (Castor fiber) into England’. 

 

Hi Roger! It has been a few years since you graduated from your BSc, why don’t you tell us a bit about your career in that time? 

In my Masters (also at the University of Exeter), I chose a research project in line with my area of interest. I was particularly interested in human coexistence with wildlife. I conducted this project supervised by Prof. Robbie MacDonald and Dr. Sarah Crowley. Following this project, I presented my findings to the Steering Group of the River Otter Beaver Trial, after which I was invited to apply for a Research Assistant role with Prof. Richard Brazier to investigate perceptions of beaver reintroduction. This role involved undertaking a nationwide attitudinal questionnaire, and then evolved into my current PhD research investigating the human dimensions of beaver reintroduction, including both areas of opportunity and areas of conflict associated with Eurasian beaver reintroduction.

 

We are glad you are still working with us here at the University of Exeter – why don’t you give us a bit of background about what made you choose to study here originally?  

There were two main reasons. Firstly, the course very much aligned with my area of interest. I have always been interested in animals and conservation, and the Zoology course had a good range of modules on offer in the fields of conservation and biodiversity, as well as fantastic field trip opportunities. The second reason was the location. Cornwall is a beautiful county and proved a perfect setting in which to study for me. It will really suit anybody with interests in the coast or the outdoors.

 

Why do you think the University campus in Penryn is such a unique place to study? 

The Penryn Campus is shared with Falmouth University, a creative arts university. This includes a student union that represents students of both institutions, with societies and activities shared with students of the two institutions. This is a huge plus; the partnership wonderfully complements the experience and facilitates a whole other range of creative opportunities and activities.

 

 

Do you have any specific highlights from your time as an Undergraduate? 

The field opportunities were brilliant. As well as local day trips, we had field course modules to the Isles of Scilly and Borneo. In the summers of my undergraduate, I was also fortunate to have spent time at the Marine Turtle Conservation Project, which has strong links to the department. The first summer I went was on a volunteer placement, and in the second year I was able to collect data to contribute towards my undergraduate research project in a three-month placement. It was hard work, but incredibly rewarding and afforded real, hands-on, and practical conservation experience. Outside of field work, I found the range of module options exciting to choose from and I felt able to tailor my course to my areas of interest.

 

How do you think your degrees from the University of Exeter have helped prepare you for a career in research? 

Conservation is more likely to be successful where there is appropriate engagement with stakeholders and publics in the process, and I have observed first hand that providing opportunities for honest and respectful discussion helps to build trust between groups, thereby facilitating shared decision-making processes. An ability to listen to diverse viewpoints, including when they are different to your own, is a very valuable skill to learn. This we practiced particularly in the Kenya field course, where we held focus groups with members of the Massai, and in my Masters research project, where I interviewed individuals with different views of beaver reintroduction (photo: Roger Auster).

 

What do you most enjoy about your work now?  

I have always been interested in conservation, and increasingly I grew aware of the need to consider the human dimensions, including where there are beneficial human-wildlife interactions or where circumstances are more challenging. The opportunity to research the human dimensions of beaver reintroduction has excited me for it is a live conversation involving many different parties, and I feel very lucky to be able to conduct research in an area of wide interest, contributing to real-world outcomes. It has been especially rewarding to be able to work alongside a diverse group of both internal and external colleagues and partners; I have learned a lot from them all.

 

Finally, do you have any advice for anyone thinking of applying to the University of Exeter?  

Follow your interests. In your course selection or module and research project choices, follow where your interest lies. It will help you to find a career in line with what motivates you, and you will enjoy the course experience even more!

 

Thank you Roger! 

If you want to read more profiles from BSc Zoology graduates follow this link or explore our Graduate in Focus homepage to learn more about the degree programmes we have on offer!