I demonstrated in the laboratory sessions of the Animal Diversity and Evolution 3 (BILG09019), which focuses on identification of arthropods collected from the shore, DNA extraction and DNA barcoding. I have also marked essays for the Origin and Diversity of Life 1 (BILG08001).

I have taught on two fieldcourses, Field Zoology 3 (2015 and 2016) and Field Ecology (2016). If you want to know more about the nature of the courses and/or my role have a look at the descriptions below.

Field Zoology 3 (BILG09017) - this week-long course is based around animal diversity, animal physiology and study design. Students learn to collect and identify specimens from different marine environments. They then undertake group projects, using a combination of field and/or laboratory studies on field-caught specimens.

My role is to assist the students throughout the course, aid them in identification, give feedback on study design and supervise a group throughout their project. I also prepare and present a series of short “How not to give a talk” talks.

Field Ecology (ECSC08007) - this is a week and a half long course with a broad aim to “familiarise students with the flora and fauna of Scotland”. The emphasis is put on learning to identify terrestrial and aquatic organisms and plants. Students then use those skills to investigate various ecological processes in a variety of semi-natural and managed ecosystems (woodlands, heath/moorland, grassland, freshwater streams).

My role here is to assist the students in identification of plants and animals, both in the field and in the lab, as well as to teach them a variety of different sampling methods. I also assess and mark their work daily, providing immediate feedback on write-ups. I teach how to design, execute and analyse simple field experiments in ecology.

Questions? Get in touch!

I love discussing my research, if you have any questions or observations, don’t hesitate to email me. You can also connect with me on Twitter.