Being a 'Habitat Helper'

I talked to Sarah Boon, freelance writer for Nature, about why working on research with Yellowstone to Yukon Conservation Initiative is my dream job.  Our conversation ranged widely, including the similarities and differences between research at an NGO and in academia, how I got the job (fabulous colleagues sent it to me and encouraged me to apply), and the kind of activities involved.  It was fun for me to reflect on the first six months into my new job.

https://www.nature.com/nature/journal/v550/n7676/full/nj7676-421a.html

Some of the things that didn't go into the final version include the importance of teamwork (my colleagues at Y2Y are fantastic), collaboration and sharing, and why practical conservation takes more than publishing research papers.   

Sarah later wrote a blog post about the interview and writing process. It was interesting for me to see her perspective, including the role of editors and why interviewees have to try hard - really hard! - to be specific in our answers and give examples.  "Show, don't tell."  Great opportunity to reflect on my own science communication. Follow Sarah on Twitter and her blog. 

After work hike to West Wind Pass, near Canmore. Photo by Ross Donihue.