I have had a profound interest in studying ecology and biodiversity since my GCSE’s. This drive motivated me to pursue this interest by studying Biology BSc at University of Worcester. While preparing for my undergraduate dissertation the research I carried out on invertebrates, specifically desert locusts (Schistocerca gregaria), allowed me to appreciate their place and importance in a variety of ecosystems. After the bachelors I went on to study invertebrates in further detail by enrolling on the Entomology MSc course at Harper Adams University. Working for University of Reading as Pollinator Projects Technician after the MSc, I expanded my skills, knowledge and experience of working on crops such as beans, strawberries and apples.

Beginning my research at University of Reading in October 2018, I am currently studying the impacts of novel control strategies for Spotted Wing Drosophila (Drosophila suzukii) on ecosystem services and crop production in raspberries. While focusing on how to maximise crop yield in raspberries by limiting infestation by SWD I will also analyse the impacts these control strategies, such as wire mesh, can have on pollination efficacies and natural enemy immigration into the crop.