Background
I work in the International Research section of the Conservation Science Department. I specialise in spatial analysis of large datasets using ArcGIS, R and Python. I'm currently working on a project investigating the role of phenology change in Afro-palearctic migrant declines and a project to improve the monitoring of Key Biodiversity Areas (KBAs) through the use of remote sensing.
Over the years I have worked on a variety of different RSPB Conservation Science projects, including:
- Monitoring land cover change on African Important Bird Areas and assessing the effectiveness of protected areas,
- Using citizen science data to model species distributions in Denmark,
- Investigating the impact of agri-environment schemes on black grouse in Wales,
- Modelling spoon-billed sandpiper distributions,
- Counting dotterel in the Cairngorms,
- Assessing the effectiveness of habitat creation as compensation for development projects,
- Mapping the opportunities, constraints and ecological sensitivities to renewable energy across the UK,
- Assessing the potential ecological impacts of fracking in the UK,
- Providing evidence for the defence of the EU Birds and Habitats Directives,
- Analysing the results of long-term grazing trials in the northern Pennines.
Before working for the RSPB, I was the RSPB's first ever intern (my claim to fame!) working on the London House Sparrow Parks Project. I also worked at the Institute of Zoology, red-listing molluscs, crayfish and marine fish.
Contact
Alison Beresford
Conservation Scientist, Conservation Science
Scotland Headquarters, 2 Lochside View, Edinburgh Park, Edinburgh, EH12 9DH