Melissa Taylor
Meet Mel Taylor, AMS student rep for the Perth Council and PhD student extraordinaire
What is your current area of research?
I’m currently a PhD student at Murdoch University working in collaboration with the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions developing a species-specific surveying method for the chuditch (Dasyurus geoffroii). I’m using lured camera traps to get individual identity to be used with spatially-explicit capture recapture. The aim is to use individual movement to optimise camera spacing and placement within the environment.
Tell us about your background; what made you interested in research?
I’ve always had an interest in animals, growing up I loved going to the zoo (still do!) and learning about wildlife. After moving to Australia from Germany I became fascinated by marsupials. I studied Zoology and Conservation Biology at UWA, I had the opportunity to do a unit on human-wildlife conflict in Sri Lanka in my last semester which made me realise that I wanted to take an active role in conserving species and influencing policy. I did my honours at Murdoch University on bandicoot and bilby ear morphology, solidifying my choice in pursuing research. Since starting my PhD I’ve had amazing opportunities to work out in nature and learn a new set of skills.
What are some of the highlights from following this career path?
There’s been a few, and I’m sure there’s many more in my future! The trip to Sri Lanka has been one of the highlights, getting to see a beautiful country and talk to people there is something I will never forget. I’ve also had the opportunity to work at the Western Australian Museum between honours and PhD. And of course, I’ve been able to meet and work with amazing people who I’ve learned so much from.
What do you consider are some of your best achievements?
Publishing my first paper from my honours research in Current Zoology has to be one of the highest achievements to date. It was a lot of hours of work, but a great learning experience for me. Other than that, being able to stand before a room of academics and talk about my research without too many ‘umms’ and visible shaking is something I’m quite proud of.
What is your favourite activity in mammal research?
Probably cage trapping. Despite not being a morning person I love being out in the bush and being able to handle animals.
Do you have an interesting mammal anecdote?
While in Sri Lanka I had the opportunity to talk with some local Navy officers who were rescuing and relocating wildlife from a newly created dam. While we were talking, a mongoose in a cage trap reached out to chew on my hiking boot, the little rascal.
Do you have any advice for other students interested in mammalogy?
Follow your interests! It may feel like obvious advice, but never feel like you need to stick to a particular field or animal. It will broaden your knowledge and could lead to some amazing opportunities.
Post a comment
You must log in or register to post comments.
If you are visiting this form to renew your membership enter your email address and password below.
Click on the forgotten password option if you are not sure of your password.