Lincoln University has been nominated as the preferred host organisation by half of all winners in a prestigious summer scholarship for environmental and conservation research.
The 2008 BAYERBoost environmental scholarship winners include four secondary and two tertiary students who will receive funding to pursue research over a six to 12 week period, under the guidance of staff from their selected research organisation. Three of this year’s six winners applied for a scholarship to study at Lincoln University.
Professor John Hampton, head of the Bio-Protection and Ecology Division, says the University is delighted to be hosting three top young scholars over the summer. “We’re extremely pleased that these students have come to us with their research interests and we’re looking forward to helping them to gain experience and develop their study plans.
“These scholarships are ideal for students with an interest in environmental science and ecology to do paid work alongside experienced scientists and see the reality of a career in scientific research.
“Obviously we’re delighted that they’ve recognised the expertise in ecology and conservation sciences here at Lincoln University, and the opportunities for close supervision and support. We’ve hosted summer scholars before, but it’s an important first to have three out of the six coming here together.”
Victor Kang, of Burnside High School, Christchurch, will research an endangered native and hybrid weta species and their behaviours in selecting mates. He will spend six weeks collecting species, categorising the specimens, conducting mating behavioural experiments and preparing a report on his findings. Victor’s two species - the rare Banks Peninsula tree weta and a common range species - have begun to interbreed and produce a hybrid but possibly infertile species. The presence of a hybrid breeding zone therefore has important consequences for the survival of the endangered species. He will work with Dr Roddy Hale, a Lincoln University entomologist.
Natalie Scott, of Chilton St James School, Wellington, will research the community ecology of epiphytic lichens in inland Canterbury’s Craigieburn Forest Park. Lichens are found in most ecosystems in New Zealand but are highly specialised. Natalie’s research proposal identified a need to increase knowledge about lichens on mountain beech trees and their potential role in monitoring environmental health. She will work with Lincoln University ecologist Dr Hannah Buckley.
Katherine Hill of Mackenzie College, Fairlie, will study the Canterbury knobbled weevil, recently re-discovered in Burke Pass and previously thought to be extinct. Katherine’s scholarship study will assist in finding and managing other isolated populations in the eastern Canterbury foothills. It will promote a sense of public ownership of the species among farmers and the general public and may lead to assisting management of the insects’ plant host, Aciphylla, more commonly know as speargrass. She will work with Lincoln University senior technical officer Mike Bowie.
This year’s intake of summer scholars will receive between $3000 and $6000 each from Bayer New Zealand Ltd, depending on their year level.
About the BAYERBoost Scholarships
Administered by the Royal Society of New Zealand, the BAYERBoost scholarship programme aims to encourage environmental research by providing students with the opportunity to broaden their experience in research or environmental projects. Students can apply for a scholarship, in conjunction with their preferred host organisation, which will pay a wage while working on an environment, conservation or sustainable development project during the summer break.
About the Bio-Protection and Ecology
The Agriculture and Life Sciences faculty is responsible for teaching and research into a large number of areas including: Agro-ecology; Biocontrol; Biodiversity; Biosecurity; Conservation, Wildlife and Invasion Biology; Entomology; Fungal Genetics; Molecular Systematics; Plant Pathology; and Urban, Forest and Behavioural Ecology.
The division has a large research infrastructure with a range of advanced facilities and equipment. Many of its staff are also members of the National Centre for Advanced Bio-Protection Technologies, a campus-based Centre of Research Excellence.
Further information:
Elizabeth Owens
External Relations Director
Phone: 027 249 1960
Sue Unsworth
Science Outreach Co-ordinator
Phone: 027 249 1960 or 325 3838 Extn 8381