Endangered Species Recovery and Conservation - MRes / MSc

Modules

Conservation Priorities(20 credit points)

This module aims to integrate the disciplines concerning the conservation of species and habitats, to provide a thorough basis of knowledge. From this, you'll develop a coherent approach to the specialist taxonomic and surveying techniques, and the legal framework behind these. You'll study in detail the five major threats to species on the planet (climate change, habitat loss and fragmentation, invasive alien species, human wildlife conflict and exploitation).

This module is assessed by coursework (40%) and an exam (60%)

Species Recovery: Theories, Methods and Techniques(20 credit points)

Study both the theoretical and applied aspects of successfully recovering species under the threat of extinction. You'll develop an understanding of population dynamics, and the various methods used to facilitate species recovery. Methods covered will include those employed in the removal of invasive species (plant and animal), habitat preparation, modelling, mitigation, inciting public support, reintroduction and translocation, and the ex-situ aspects of conservation unrelated to captive breeding.

In addition, you'll develop the practical applied skills often required for species recovery, such as radio-telemetry, necropsy, scat dietary analysis, surveying methods, and animal capture and handling techniques. Furthermore, this module will specifically address methods of facilitating species recovery, through enhanced dialogue and progressive thinking when consulting with local communities.

This module is assessed by coursework (70%) and a field skills portfolio (30%)

Captive Breeding and Husbandry(20 credit points)

This module will provide an understanding of the many aspects required to successfully breed endangered species in captivity. Discover the various goals of captive breeding, and develop an awareness of how techniques may differ according to the proposed use of the animals. The module will encompass a broad overview of all areas of knowledge required for the maintenance and reproduction of wild animals ex-situ, such as:

• housing
• nutrition
• health
• enrichment
• contraception for animals to be used in reintroduction or translocation
• rearing, pre-release preparation, and training

Students will also become familiar with industry-related software such as Zootrition®, SPARKS, PMx and ZIMs.

Teaching of this module, and the Conservation Genetics module, will be shared between staff at two locations, at the NTU Brackenhurst campus, and at the Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust.

This module is assessed by coursework (100%)

Conservation Genetics(20 credit points)

Gain an understanding of the basis of conservation genetics, and how the use of genetic theory and techniques can aid the recovery of threatened species.

You'll cover aspects such as:

• impacts of reduced genetic diversity
• inbreeding and outbreeding depression
• population fragmentation
• loss of gene flow
• genetic drift
• genetic aspects of captive breeding and genetic adaptation to captivity
• forensics
• non-invasive sampling techniques
• the use of genetics to increase knowledge of species biology

This module is assessed by coursework (70%) and a laboratory portfolio (30%)

Geographical Information Systems (GIS)(20 credit points)

GIS is an important tool for monitoring biodiversity and can be used to store, manipulate, analyse and present large amounts of spatial and attribute data - data that can be used to target surveys and monitoring schemes. Data collected during field surveys and from remotely sensed images taken into GIS allows for the monitoring of both the location, and the extent of the change. In this module, you'll explore the application of GIS and Global Navigation Satellite Systmes (GNSS) technology within biodiversity conservation.

This module is assessed by coursework (100%)

Research Methods and Data Analysis(20 credit points)

Learn advanced skills in interpretation of quantitative and qualitative research data relevant to whole-organism biology, and develop a critical understanding of the ethical considerations involved in the collection of data. You'll present your findings and research in a variety of ways, as well as critically evaluating, interpreting and relaying knowledge gained from secondary sources, to peers.

This module is assessed by coursework (100%)

Research Project(MRes 120 credit points, MSc 60 credit points)

Research in depth a chosen topic area related to endangered species recovery and conservation. Design and implement a relevant research project with a strong aspect of originality. Communicate the findings to an informed audience in a comprehensive scientific report.

This module is assessed by coursework (100%)