Taxidermy and other specimens being stored in Life Sciences building, University Park campus

Zoology alumni stories

Alice and Ellie both graduated in 2019. Find out how their degree's have helped to shape their career paths

Dr Alice Leavey, Postdoctoral Researcher

Alice graduated from the Zoology MSci course in 2019 and now works for University College London (UCL).

What does your current Job Role entail?

Working on the UKRI-funded project, “Development, Diversity and Evolution of Reptile Skull Shape” with Dr Laura Porro (UCL), we're processing imaging data of extant and fossil reptile heads from microCT scans.

How has your degree helped you professionally?

Zoology provided me with the basis I needed to explore the areas of science I love most. The evolution, ecology and conservation-based modules in particular shaped many of my future decisions and brought me many opportunities throughout my career.

What advice would you give to a student embarking on this course?

Take the most of every opportunity. Read those emails on internships and summer opportunities. Everyone nowadays has a first-class degree - doing extra activities and work is not only going to improve how you approach your degree, but ultimately it is what will make you stand out when looking for a job after your degree.

Ellie Ellicott, Research Communications Executive

Ellie graduated from the Zoology BSc course in 2019 and currently works for the Children's Cancer and Leukaemia Group.

What does your current Job Role entail?

I work at a childhood cancer research charity and am in charge of sharing research with our supporters in an accessible way. I run a blog, webinar series, write articles and press releases, do lay abstracts and plan communications.

How has your degree helped you professionally?

My degree convinced my employers that I had the scientific background needed to do my role - I had previously been working in the fundraising team. Mostly, it's the analytical thinking and writing skills I learnt that are useful. But I was very happy to be able to do a blog post about survival of the fittest in relation to cancer!

What advice would you give to a student embarking on this course?

I would suggest having a solid plan - there are a lot of ecological surveying jobs available that don't pay well, so make sure you have a way to set yourself apart. Then, make sure you take the opportunity to get the skills you need whilst there is easy support available. Also, learn how to stand up for yourself - just because you are young doesn't mean you are worth less.

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