Since 2011, I have been working at the Environmental Research Institute (ERI) in Thurso, part of the University of the Highlands and Islands' North Highland College. With easy access to outstanding natural resources in the Pentland Firth and Flow Country peatlands, and a range of analytical and field equipment, our research seeks to address emerging issues related to improving our understanding of the natural environment.

My Fellowship in 1992 explored marine conservation and community development, which provided a sound basis over the years for working with local communities and land and sea users on a range of environmental matters. At the ERI I used this experience to engage communities on the potential implications of marine renewable energy as part of EU-funded (Atlantic Areas) TURNKEY (2015), for which I was project manager. My role within the ERI management team now includes responsibility for finances, outreach and project co-ordination (EU-Interreg and H2020).

Nurturing an interest and passion in environmental science, among the next generation of school leavers, is where I see the legacy of my Fellowship.