My Environmental Science International Research Placement in Australia
Environmental Science student Rebecca shares her international research placement in Australia, studying groundwater recharge and gaining research experience
student ambassador rebecca for environmental sciences year abroad
My name is Rebecca and I am a fourth-year Environmental Science who completed the International Research Placement year. I undertook my placement at the University of New South Wales in Australia, which allowed me to apply my academic experience within a professional research environment and experience life in another country.
During my placement, I worked as part of a small research team contributing to Australia’s National Groundwater Recharging Observing Systems (NGROS). The project consists of a network of drip loggers placed in underground cave systems throughout Australia, monitoring how rainfall becomes groundwater in real time.
As part of the placement, I wrote my own independent research project, exploring the relationship between synoptic climatology and groundwater recharge. It was a challenging yet rewarding project, requiring me take ownership of my learning. I improved my ability to handle complex environmental data and strengthened my problem-solving skills.
There were three main highlights from the placement. Firstly, working alongside leading researchers in cave hydrology made the experience feel meaningful, showing me how research can contribute to real-world environmental challenges. Secondly, getting the opportunity to attend conferences and engage with professionals in the field was incredibly valuable, broadening my perspective into the world of academic research. Thirdly, I enjoyed gaining hands-on laboratory experience, including the opportunity to use specialised equipment.
I also received excellent support from the University of Birmingham throughout my placement. My academic supervisor visited Sydney in November, which gave me the reassurance that I needed and ensured I was on track to meeting the goals of the placement.
Outside of an academic context, living in Australia was an incredible experience. I quickly adapted to a new way of life and gained confidence in being independent and exploring new places. After completing the placement, I travelled along the west coast of Australia with friends, which was an unforgettable way to end my placement year.
Completing a placement year is an amazing opportunity, giving you a chance to develop skills that go far beyond those learnt within a lecture hall. Looking back, my time in Australia was a highlight of my university journey. It has helped shape my future ambitions and I would strongly encourage anyone considering it to take that jump!