TERN Australia was recently privileged to participate in the International Ecology School 2024, held in South Korea from 19-26 August. The school is a fabulous display of international collaboration.
The International Ecology School (IES) is an annual event, organised by the Korean Long-term Ecological Research (KLTER) network. IES brings together budding ecologists and seasoned researchers from across the globe, providing a unique platform for knowledge exchange and inspiration.
TERN’s Education & Training Manager, Dr Eleanor Velasquez, participated as a lecturer this year and was accompanied by two exceptional students: Mr Cooper Locke from James Cook University and Ms Ella Cathcart-Van Weeren from the University of Queensland. These students, selected from a competitive pool of 35 Australian applicants, embarked on this philanthropically funded expedition as part of TERN’s commitment to contributing to nurturing the next generation of long-term ecological researchers in our region.
Cooper Locke (James Cook University), Eleanor Velasquez (TERN) and Ella Cathcart-Van Weeren (University of Queensland) arrive on Jeju Island, South Korea
The week-long program was a perfect blend of educational workshops, field excursions, and networking opportunities. Participants were treated to an impressive showcase of Korea’s ecological and environmental research facilities, including the Halla Mountain LTER site, the National Institute of Biological Resources, and the Research Institute of Climate Change and Agriculture.
“The level of commitment Korea is showing towards long-term ecological monitoring and research is truly inspiring,” Dr Velasquez remarked. “Their approach to rapidly responding and adapting agriculture for a rapidly shifting climate, from temperate to subtropical, offers valuable lessons for Australia and other nations grappling with similar challenges.”
A highlight of the school was the opportunity for students to engage directly with leading international researchers. These interactions not only broadened their understanding of global ecological issues but also opened their eyes to the diverse career paths available in long-term ecology research.
Left: after hiking to Geomun Oreum, an ancient volcano/caldera that last erupted ~10,000 years ago, Cooper Locke and others explored the forest, which grows mostly on rock without much soil. The trees are 200 – 300 years old but have a low DBH.
Right: visiting the LTER site on South Korea’s tallest peak – Hallasan Mountain
Ella Cathcart-Van Weeren, Cooper Locke and Eleanor Velasquez provided presentations at the IES on their areas of research.
Dr Velasquez delivered a presentation titled “From islands to ecosystems: bridging biogeography and environmental education”, which she designed to inspire and educate students in their career pathway.
“It was heartening to see the students’ enthusiasm and curiosity,” she said. “By sharing my non-linear career journey, I hoped to show them that there are many paths to a fulfilling career in ecology.”
The school also served as a catalyst for potential future collaborations. Researchers from various countries exchanged ideas and discussed emerging trends in ecological research.
For the Australian students, the experience was transformative.
“This school has completely changed my perspective on ecological research,” said Cooper Locke. “The global scale of the challenges we face, and the collaborative spirit I’ve witnessed here, have reinforced my commitment to pursuing a career in this field.”
As we look to the future, events like the International Ecology School play a crucial role in shaping the next generation of ecological researchers. By fostering international relationships, facilitating knowledge exchange, and providing hands-on experiences, we are nurturing a global community of scientists equipped to tackle the complex environmental challenges of our time.
TERN’s participation in such international initiatives underscores our commitment to not only supporting world-class ecological research but also to inspiring and educating the ecological leaders of tomorrow. As we continue to build these global connections, we strengthen our collective capacity to understand, monitor, and protect our precious ecosystems for generations to come.
