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Our female colleagues in the Water and Air team in Land Resource Management (Infrastructure and Environment department) share their experience as scientists for International Day of Women and Girls in Science which is observed on 11 February.
Chantelle de Gruchy, Shelley Hawkins, Alison Scally, are often based up at Howard Davis Farm but you may also spot them around Jersey’s coastal and inland waters, monitoring and studying water quality, availability, and ecology.
All three women share a natural interest in the environment and started their career in science by studying university degrees and masters in various disciplines to earn the necessary qualifications to land the jobs they have today.
The dedicated team have an important task undertaking scientific monitoring and research which provides crucial information for policies on how we use our land. This can include monitoring for PFAS, pesticides, and nutrients in groundwater and surface water. As well as monitoring bathing water and marine water to assess nutrient inputs into St Aubin’s Bay.
“One day is never the same as the next. We can be found monitoring bodies of water in the snow, rain or sunshine. Other days we are office-based managing our projects, providing scientific advice, analysing data for trends, along with the interpretation and reporting of our results.
“We also enjoy cross-working on projects with colleagues across Government, drawing together our expertise.”
While the work can be challenging, and involves them going out in all weathers, as well as keeping up with the latest emerging science, the success of their work comes down to one thing: team ethos.
“It’s rewarding being part of a hardworking and dedicated team who are passionate about Jersey’s environment. There are so many great aspects working for Jersey’s natural environment.”
When asked what they would like to say to other women on International Women and Girls in Science day, they said: “If you have an interest in environmental science, follow your passion through work experience and any appropriate qualifications, as this will give you the best opportunity to gain employment in this field.”
Want to find out more about science based careers within the public sector? Contact: earlyincareers@gov.je