Synopsis:
Without knowledge, there can be no application. This module is designed to bring you ‘face to face’ with the regulators, policies and their science base, as these potential employers (e.g. CEFAS, Defra, the Environment Agency, Natural England) will give lectures on topical issues. The focus is on human impacts upon ecosystems, including pollution and habitat alteration and how these can be mitigated. National and international legislation and directives are considered (e.g. EU Water Framework Directive). Guest lecturers will also include consultants who will be able to advise on career paths
As a detailed case study, you will visit the River Communities Group based in Dorset for one week and investigate the link between successful science and policy: for example, contemporary aspects of the EU Water Framework Directive will be considered, including underlying methodology behind bioassessment and biomonitoring (e.g. RIVPACS). This will be closely linked to how the Environment Agency are working with Defra Test Catchments (DTCs).
Due to the nature of the fieldwork on this module, and in the interests of ensuring student safety at all times, this elective module might not be suitable for students with certain medical conditions. Any student who is interested in applying for this module but who has a medical condition (including mental health conditions) which might affect their ability to work safely in the field should contact the SBCS Student Support Officer, Shaheda Batha, who will consult the Module Organiser and any other relevant parties (e.g. colleagues in DDS) regarding any additional support required to enable your participation in the module. Given the need to arrange travel, accommodation and/or visas for this module, students are encouraged to contact Shaheda at the earliest possible opportunity. If it is not possible to make suitable adjustments and accommodations such that a student can safely meet the learning outcomes defined for this module, it might be necessary and appropriate for them to choose an alternative elective module.
