Ecology Research Group (ERG)
The Ecology Research Group (ERG) aims to deliver user-defined solutions via research and consultancy, and fundamental research using a variety of model systems.
Within the ERG we believe that our activity must be relevant to, and should directly involve, the non-academic community. Furthermore we also believe that we should prioritise stewardship of the environment and that our research should facilitate social, cultural and economic prosperity.
Research themes
Research within the ERG is organised into three research groupings:
- Animal behaviour, welfare and conservation.
- Pests, pathogens and crop protection.
- Applied ecology and environmental management.
We also have considerable experience in undertaking consultancy work and we welcome contact from all potential partners. Please see our consultancy page for more information.
Activities
A wide range of non-academic user groups benefit from the work of the ERG. In recent years these have included government agencies such as Canterbury City Council, the Environment Agency and Natural England. We have also worked with charities including the Aspinall Foundation, Kent Wildlife Trust and The Donkey Sanctuary, and commercial companies such as Algaecytes and Quex Park.
In most cases, user groups are involved directly at each stage in the research process and hence research activity is specifically directed to meet the user’s needs. Recent research has also resulted in husbandry modifications that directly affect animal welfare and biocontrol solutions.
Promoting engagement
The ERG aims to increase general engagement and involvement with science and the environment. As such the group contributes to a significant range of activities designed to achieve such broader impact and community involvement. For instance, we are involved with the Kent Mammal Group, Kent Bat Group, provide expertise and materials to support local BioBlitz days, and work closely with a number of local schools and FE colleges to support and promote STEM activity and uptake.