Gliselle Marin

Gliselle completed a Master of Conservation Biology and now works as the development manager for the Ya’axché Conservation Trust in Belize.

Perfect choice

Having worked on various conservation projects, Gliselle Marin was searching for a graduate programme that would provide options outside the traditional MSc path to academia, which led her to enrolling in the Master of Conservation Biology.

“The option to do independent research meant I did not have to give up the development of critical research skills whilst also exploring conservation approaches through policy, communications, human dimensions, protected areas management and restoration.”

Translocation research

Gliselle, who’s from Belize, completed her research project at Zealandia and received mentorship from people working in conservation, including the conservation research manager, site advisers, rangers and volunteers. Her research project monitored the health of translocated hihi (stitchbird) populations.

“I was able to be part of one of the projects that contributes to a larger vision for conservation in New Zealand through the translocation of vulnerable endemic species.”

The programme allowed Gliselle to visit organisations and conservation projects around New Zealand and learn from some of the world’s leading scientists and conservationists.

A future in conservation

“I’ve now graduated with practical skills and knowledge to enter the field of conservation, and the confidence to take on new challenges.

“Whilst studying I was offered a role as development manager for the Ya’axché Conservation Trust in Belize. I hope to continue to work in a capacity to preserve national resources, increase public awareness and encourage sustainable development.”