David J. Pereira

PhD Summary

We now have a rough grasp of the coarse numbers of species that have gone extinct or are threatened with extinction, at least for terrestrial vertebrates. However, much work remains to be completed on understanding how extinctions equate to loss of ecosystem functions, the impacts of poorly-studied extinction drivers (especially regarding poorly-studied taxa) and, crucially, how best to mitigate the threats island biodiversity faces. 

 In this PhD I will examine three questions (i) how different taxonomic groups are faring in the current island biodiversity crisis, and how loss of functional roles varies spatially and between taxa (ii) the temporal trajectory of overall island biodiversity, particularly in response to specific extinction drivers, and (iii) how extinction threats on islands can be alleviated through conservation translocations. 

Previous activity

I spent my working time advancing my experience within three main themes (as I saw it): Industry experience, Academic Research, Ornithologically-focused fieldwork.  

Before commencing my PhD, and aligning with these themes, I worked as an Ornithology Consultant in the offshore wind industry at APEM ltd, where my role involved using R and QGIS to analyse remotely sensed seabird and marine mammal data. I calculated species abundance and density, created distribution maps, and compiled results into client reports. I also enjoyed developing new R codes for improved data manipulation and visualisation. I gained valuable skills that will come useful during the PhD, and equally important (if not more so) I made friends, some of which I still keep in contact with. 

For academic research, I first lead my MSc thesis through peer-review to publication which required effective communication, project management, and self-motivation (as I did it alongside a full-time job). Upon completing this work, I was still extremely motivated to develop my research skills and was also concerned about the bird I studied (Bahama Warbler Setophaga flavescens) and its vulnerability to extinction by hurricanes, so together with a team of researchers from several institutions, we began a study into tropical cyclone threats to biodiversity hotspots’ fauna. During this work, I enjoyed working with two friends, and the challenge of learning as much as necessary about this subject. I also enjoyed writing sections of the manuscript, and using R and ArcMap to manipulate, combine and analyse large secondary datasets. 

Lastly, I spent some of my spare time bird ringing in North Wales where I lived before the PhD. This, combined with birding, helped me to decompress and remind myself of the bigger picture.  

Why did you choose CENTA?

I am passionate about self-development, and therefore, I hoped to learn and develop new skills in graphic design, public engagement, and scientific communication to help maximise the reach and impact of my work. The opportunity to undertake an internship during my PhD to gain professional experience and learn how research/knowledge/policy is applied on the ground was also incredibly appealing to me. A CENTA studentship will give me plenty of opportunities to develop skills and knowledge important in scientific research and beyond.