DICE is Britain’s leading research centre dedicated to conserving biodiversity and the ecological processes that support ecosystems and people. The DICE experts ensure that our MSc Conservation Science programme delivers the skills and knowledge that are essential components of conservation science and practice. Find out more from two of its graduates.
Monty Ammar, MSc graduate, class of 2023
“I’ve had the privilege of embarking on an incredible conservation journey at DICE. After completing my MSc in September 2022, I’m now a first-year PhD student at DICE. My MSc research delved into the complex issue of tropical forest loss, particularly the environmental impact of gold mining in the Guiana Shield region, situated along the north coast of South America, which contributes significantly to global emissions. Using cutting-edge deep learning and remote sensing techniques, I analysed mine geometry and spectral cover in Guyana, a country blessed with pristine rainforests and a hotspot for gold mining. My time at DICE not only equipped me with essential skills in data analysis using the R programming language but also fostered a multidisciplinary approach, allowing me to blend qualitative social science data seamlessly with natural sciences.
One of the highlights of my MSc journey was a memorable field trip to Oare Marshes Nature Reserves, where I had the chance to indulge in my passion for bird watching alongside my MSc supervisor. The experience at DICE catapulted me into my first conservation job with Butterfly Conservation Northern Ireland, immediately after graduation. A year later, I found myself back at DICE, this time pursuing a PhD opportunity in gold mining research. My journey also involved working part-time on a fascinating research project involving government bodies, NGOs, and academics. Thanks to the incredible networking opportunities at DICE, I’m exploring potential career paths, including collaborating with the IUCN task force to investigate the impact of mining on Western chimpanzees in West Africa. So, if you’re considering an MSc in Conservation Science, my advice is simple: go for it! DICE is a renowned institution, a hub for conservation research, and a place where you can nurture your passion; it can open countless doors for you.”.
Alicia Hallat, MSc graduate, class of 2023
“After a decade working in administration, I found the courage to go to university. Graduating with a BSc Environment and Sustainability elsewhere, I applied to DICE’s MSc Conservation Project Management pathway to get more focussed wildlife conservation experience. The DICE MSc programme stretched me academically and intellectually, and the lecturers somehow always found time to listen to and support students. A key take-away for me is that nice people can also be successful. Even though I felt monumental imposter syndrome around my peers initially, my time at DICE was an amazing opportunity to learn not just from staff but from my fellow students too (including the hugely supportive PhD community), who turned out to be the loveliest people I have met. By year-end, I was surprised by what I was capable of professionally and personally, including presenting the findings from my research project at DICE’s public lectures and Twitter/X conference. Other highlights were the residential field course at the Durrell Conservation Academy, learning DNA techniques in the genetics lab, helping organise the annual BioBlitz, and an introduction to the Wildwood Trust team which led to me volunteering there.
My advice to anyone considering this route? Take every opportunity on offer; who knows what it will lead to! Challenge yourself, it is OK to find things tricky. Don’t let anyone talk you out of following your dreams; you are never too young (or too old) to make a difference! If you do secure a place, I hope you enjoy it half as much as I did. Good luck! ”. Alicia is currently employed by Somerset Wildlife Trust UK as their Human-Wildlife Co-Existence Officer.
Apply now for the MSc Conservation Science.