Careers
Fleur de Crespigny
As a research assistant (R.A.) in the Zoology Department's Spider Lab, Fleur has been involved in current research. For any project, Fleur assisted with experimental design, field work, lab experiments, data entry, statistical analysis and writing papers for publication. Caring for the spiders and other animals in the lab was also one of her major responsibilities.
"To look after animals in the lab, RA?s must make careful observations and employ a bit of trial and error to establish the best methods. I enjoy the challenge of problem solving, and most of all the ability to generate ideas and participate in up and coming research."
Fleur has previously volunteered as an RA in Madagascar, on a project investigating plumage colour in the Paradise Flycatcher. "I simply asked whether I could come along and help. I was lucky that they knew me from the department. I have always wanted to work on a research project overseas and so it seemed to good an opportunity to miss! It was fantastic to work in such extreme conditions - it was very hot and we had no electricity or running water. It was a very different project to my previous work.
"The possibilities for future travel are endless. International conferences are a must, and field locations are not usually in the city! Jobs tend to take you to unusual places."
Fleur starts a PhD at the university of Leeds in the UK next year. She intends to continue her career in research.