An award-winning undergraduate dissertation provided the springboard for Jess to take on a Research Assistant role within the EU-funded Marineff Project.
The project is a collaboration between France and the UK, with the goal of developing new coastal infrastructure that will enhance biodiversity in cross-channel waters. Jess is responsible for collecting high-quality datasets, as well as content for social media, online video platforms and newsletters, some of which have been cited as examples of best practice by project funders.
Currently halfway through her PhD at BU, Jess has already co-authored a book chapter and four papers which are awaiting publication in scientific journals. She has presented on her work at four conferences and shares research outcomes on a local and international scale, including giving talks to college students and community groups, hosting and presenting webinars and appearing on radio.
Jess says: “In my final undergraduate year I was given the opportunity to get involved with a Student Environment Research Team project by unit leader, Professor Roger Herbert. It gave me a chance to learn new skills, work with other like-minded students and sparked my love for research, which I am still involved with today for my PhD.”
Factfile
Name: Jess Bone
Age: 28
Job role: Marineff Research Assistant
Organisation: Bournemouth University
Course studied: BSc (Hons) Marine Ecology and Conservation; MRes - Faculty of Science and Technology
Graduated: 2019
What her colleagues say
Jess’ degree from BU has developed her scientific skills to a very high level, but also equipped her with a wealth of personal, employability and leadership skills. She is at the forefront of designing nature-based solutions to mitigate biodiversity loss associated with coastal infrastructure and flood defence assets. She has also been commended for her design and editorial skills on research project communications."
Professor Rick Stafford, Bournemouth University