Alyssa Burton is studying a Bachelor of Science at UWA, majoring in Environmental Science, and has been nominated for the McCusker Centre for Citizenship Outstanding Intern Award for her contribution to protecting WA’s natural environment with the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD).
“Alyssa completed a very comprehensive risk assessment for a known invasive freshwater species, Didymosphenia geminata, known as Didymo or rock snot, within the very compressed space of the winter internship,” said Careena Nolan, Senior Project Officer at DPIRD.
“Alyssa’s completion of the risk assessment means that we are better informed about the impact this species could have on Western Australia should it be introduced, and it highlighted key areas where we would need to conduct surveillance for establishment. She also wrote up some proposed mitigation measures and solutions that are being investigated or implemented in other countries that have had this species introduced.
“This was her first experience with biosecurity as a discipline, and Alyssa was very engaged with the work, bringing a great attitude and fitting in with our team from day one.”
Alyssa said the internship gave her a new appreciation for the logistical complexity of protecting WA ecosystems.
“It was fantastic working with a small team of scientists who are passionate about the environment, and incredibly rewarding to make a measurable contribution to environmental stewardship in WA,” she said.
“Australian ecosystems are very vulnerable to invasive species, given how hyper-specialised many native organisms are. The risk assessment work in my internship supports DPIRD to apply mitigation strategies, with positive flow-on effects for local communities with respect to tourism, agriculture, aquatic industries, aesthetic enjoyment and sensitivities towards conservation.”
Returning to study after working in a different industry, Alyssa reflected on the value of undertaking an internship.
“Mature-age students shouldn’t assume internships are not for them because they are older than the average applicant. It’s good to give back to the community, and a great opportunity to broaden work experience.
“I now have first-hand experience working in a scientific role, successfully applying skills I learned during my studies in a real-world context, such as spatial mapping, literature reviews and data analysis, and the experience awakened my new-found interest in biosecurity!”
Being nominated for the Outstanding Intern Award was a welcome bonus:
“I’m proud of the contribution I made; I worked hard during my internship, and it’s great to be acknowledged for that.”