Research on the reserve
If you are currently enrolled in a relevant degree discipline at any University, it is possible to conduct your dissertation research on the UmPhafa Private Nature Reserve.
This is a fantastic opportunity to develop practical fieldwork skills and live and work in a reserve setting, surrounded by wildlife. All the data you collect is valuable in understanding the ecology of the reserve and informing conservation management. UmPhafa has constant work required to rehabilitate the land to its natural condition. Further research data is much needed and your hard work will really make a difference to UmPhafa!
Research Placement Considerations
It is essential all research contributing towards your degree scheme is agreed upon by your academic supervisor and fulfills all requirements of your research module. Your methodology should be written and approved by the reserve coordinator prior to your stay to enable you to begin swiftly and equipment to be organised.
Data collection should take place over a minimum of six weeks. Therefore a two month stay on the reserve is required. This will include an induction week to orientate yourself and learn about the reserve prior to working on your project.
Once you have completed your induction, most data collection work will be conducted independently. The UmPhafa staff can assist you with information and guidance for your project, but you should also maintain contact with your university and provide your academic supervisor with progress reports.
Interested in Research on UmPhafa?
• Download and read the Priority Research List and Research Placement Info Pack by clicking the icons below.
• Contact Wendy@colchesterzoo.org to inform us what research area you would like to pursue and discuss your ideas.
• Discuss your project with your academic supervisor and have your methodology approved.
• Once you have developed a feasible study, download an application form below, and send the completed form to Wendy@colchesterzoo.org
Information Pack
Priority List
Click here to download the Priority Research List
Apply Here
Download our Research Placement application form.
Please send your completed internship application form and an introductory email to:
Wendy@colchesterzoo.org
Testimonial:
East Coast Turing
30th April – 14th May 2024
Michelle – ‘It was such a lovely experience to be able to learn new things first-hand and see the cultural side.’
Ellie – ‘The placement was inviting, exciting and engaging, I’m very appreciative of the opportunity and couldn’t have imagined a better place to do it. It’s been an experience I’ll take with me forever. Thank you to everyone for being so hospitable and accepting.’
Tracy – ‘I have been waiting all my life for something like this and I cannot thank you enough for this amazing opportunity, I can’t describe how much I enjoyed it. I feel incredibly lucky and grateful.’
Alex – ‘Best placement! The staff are incredible, the animals were a great sight to see and the manual work was great!’
Ben – ‘I feel so lucky to be here and all the staff have made it wonderful – Thank you.’