James joined UES in 2023 as a Graduate Ecologist after three years of working as a subcontractor for UES.
James graduated from the University of Sheffield with a Master of Research (MRes) degree in Ecology and Environment in November 2023, and a First-Class BSc honours degree in Ecology and Conservation in June 2022. James gained extensive field experience in ecological surveying and conservation management during his honours degree, and experience in managing a research project and advanced data analysis during his masters degree. His masters project focused on strategies to improve public engagement with conservation, by testing the framing of ecosystem services, biodiversity benefits, and relational values in conservation adverts. James also volunteers with organisations including the RSPB and Moors for the Future Partnership, having a particular interest in upland conservation management and peatland restoration.
In his current role at UES, James assists with ecological surveys including protected species surveys, such as for bats and great crested newts (GCN), and habitat surveys, such as preliminary ecological appraisals and biodiversity net gain site assessments. James also assists with reviewing survey data and report writing.
James is currently a student member of CIEEM. James is working towards gaining his level 1 bat and GCN survey licences, and a level 3 field identification skills certificate (FISC) from the Botanical Society of Britain and Ireland (BSBI), by undertaking surveys at UES and attending external training courses.