Fiona Carswell – GM Science

Fiona Carswell

My role in Manaaki Whenua is General Manager of Science. Along with the General Manager of Science and Knowledge Translation I look after all of the research projects that sit in Portfolios. This means that I am the head of the client relationships for all of our biodiversity, biosecurity and biophysical climate change research. The General Manager of Science and Knowledge Translation looks after our soil, land management, remote sensing and social/economic research. Together we are responsible for our research strategy and supporting researchers to deliver excellent research with real-world impact.

What did you study at university?

I studied Botany and Cellular & Molecular Biology. My PhD was Plant Ecophysiology.

What was it that led you into this field?

I originally studied carbon dioxide uptake by trees. I was a biologist and figured that carbon in trees was pretty important as a potential mitigation for climate change. Once I got the chance to do research in the Brazilian Amazon I was really hooked!

Who inspires you?

Our scientists really inspire me! They are so passionate about their research – they usually know an awful lot about their subject. They can tell a very good story about what they are working on and they are really resilient in the face of setbacks.

What excites and keeps you inspired about and in the research you do?

Nowadays I’m really interested in how our research can have an impact on the big issues for our partners. Our partners might be iwi, local Government, central Government or landowners/managers. It’s incredibly satisfying to see a piece of research solve a headache for somebody!

What would be the biggest challenge you’ve faced in your career?

Like most researchers, getting started is one of the hardest things – it’s tough to find funding for research projects and a permanent job. You also have to stay strong in the face of getting papers rejected and funding applications rejected – both of these are normal experiences so sharing them with other researchers and trying again is all you can do!

What would you like it said about you at your retirement function?

That I was a great team player and that people in the organisation felt valued by me in their work.