EAC Studentship Profile: Consolata Gitau Gathoni Recipient of the first - NTU Eastern Africa Centre (EAC) PhD Studentship

Consolata Gathoni is a Postgraduate Researcher at Nottingham Trent University. She was awarded the first Eastern Africa Centre (EAC) fully funded PhD at Distance Studentship in 2023 . Her research, based in Kenya, explores 'The role of soundscapes in monitoring ecological restoration.'

Consolata is based at the 'Centre for Ecological Restoration Kenya, (CER-K)' in Tigoni, Kenya. Since starting her EAC PhD Studentship, she has been awarded several external grants to support her fieldwork.

We asked Consolata a few questions about her background, career and motivations for her research.

Tell us about your career and research before NTU?

I am an experienced and dedicated ecologist with a passion for conservation and research. My commitment to expanding my knowledge in these areas has led me to attend webinars, scientific congresses, and forums, as well as take short courses and engage in fieldwork. I pursued an MSc and BSc in Range Management with a focus on ecology to contribute to the conservation of wildlife and their habitats, particularly species at risk of extinction.

My professional experience includes working with esteemed organisations such as the African Fund for Endangered Wildlife (AFFEW), the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), and BirdLife International. I have published articles online, produced reports, and shared my findings in webinars. I have led projects on “Activity budgets and foraging patterns of Rothschild’s giraffes in Lake Nakuru National Park, Kenya”. I also reviewed the illegal bird killing in Sub-Saharan Africa, published my results, and presented my findings at two conferences.

I am actively involved in several professional networks including Women in Conservation Technology (WiCT) through Ol Pejeta TechLab, Fauna & Flora International (FFI), the WILDLABS and Conservation Leadership Program (CLP) Alumni Network, and the Society for Conservation Biology (SCB). In addition, I volunteer with Kijabe Environment Volunteers to give back to the community.

What led you to apply to NTU and the EAC PhD Studentship?

My decision to apply to Nottingham Trent University and the Eastern Africa Centre for a PhD Studentship was driven by the university's strong reputation for excellence in research and its top rank in the world for sustainability. Nottingham Trent offers a collaborative and interdisciplinary research environment that aligns with my interests in conservation and ecology. The EAC’s strong network of academic and industry experts will provide me with valuable opportunities for growth and impact in my chosen field.

Additionally, the university's commitment to sustainability and global conservation initiatives resonates with my own goals and values. I am particularly drawn to the opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration and innovative approaches to solving complex conservation challenges. Being part of the EAC allows me to work with esteemed faculty and peers who share my passion for preserving biodiversity and advancing conservation efforts.

What is your current research / experiences at NTU so far?

My PhD project focuses on the use of acoustics to evaluate restored and degraded tropical savanna ecosystems in Africa. This project is set to be the first study to use passive acoustic monitoring to evaluate the effectiveness of restoration and the gradient of land degradation in tropical savannah ecosystems in Africa. My research aims to use multiple taxa (birds, bats, insects, reptiles) soundscape approaches to rapidly trace changes in fauna sounds and ecosystem conditions. The project takes place in the Maasai Mara ecosystem, Kenya, which is an important bird and biodiversity area under threat due to land degradation, habitat fragmentation, and climate change, disrupting wildlife movement, reducing population sizes and increasing the risk of extinction .

What inspires and motivates you?

My motivation is deeply rooted in my passion for conserving and protecting the natural world. I am inspired by the beauty, complexity, and interconnectedness of ecosystems and the incredible diversity of life they support. Witnessing the challenges faced by endangered species and fragile habitats has fuelled my desire to contribute to conservation efforts.

My drive comes from a desire to make a tangible impact on the future of our planet, ensuring that the richness of biodiversity can be enjoyed by future generations. I am motivated by the opportunity to collaborate with others who share my commitment to conservation and to use innovative approaches and technologies to address pressing environmental issues.

I find fulfilment in knowing that my work can make a difference in the lives of both wildlife and local communities. This sense of purpose fuels my dedication to advancing conservation science and advocacy, and it keeps me focused on achieving meaningful and lasting change.

What are your goals and dreams going forward?

Going forward, my goals and dreams are centred around making a meaningful impact in the field of conservation and ecology. I aim to continue advancing my research and contributing to solutions that protect biodiversity and promote sustainable practices. My goals include:

• Conducting cutting-edge research that addresses pressing challenges in conservation, ecology, and zoology. I want to explore novel approaches and technologies to support the preservation of wildlife and their habitats. My PhD project on the use of acoustics sets a great foundation.
• Building strong partnerships with other researchers, organisations, and local communities to work towards common conservation goals. Collaboration is key to creating sustainable and impactful change.
• Staying updated with the latest advancements in my field and continuously improving my skills and knowledge. I want to be a leader in conservation science and technology.

Grants and Awards

1. Rufford Small Grant

Amount: £5940

Dates: 09/07/2024

Project name: Soundscape as a land degradation and ecosystem restoration monitoring tool in savannah ecosystems

Project aim: The project seeks to raise community awareness about restoration through conservation science education. We aim to train and engage the local community in acoustic data collection to build their capacity.

2. Bat Conservation International

Amount: $5000

Dates: 29/01/2024

Project name: Monitoring land degradation and ecosystem restoration using bats as bioindicators, in Northern Maasai Mara, Kenya

Project aim: This project proposes a multi-scale approach to assess if it is feasible to use bats as a proxy to assess the success of ecosystem restoration and monitor the ecological consequences of land degradation.

3. Idea Wild Equipment

Date: 11/06/2024

Funding for fieldwork equipment

4. Society for Conservation Biology Graduate Student Awards 2022

Amount: $1000

Dates: 18/11/2023

Project name: Use of soundscapes to monitor ecosystem restoration in Kenya

Project aim: This study aims to use Passive Acoustic monitoring to monitor multiple taxonomic soundscapes and assess how soundscapes can be used as an ecosystem restoration monitoring tool in Kenyan forest and savanna areas.

Professional Networks and Volunteering

Consolata is actively involved in several professional networks including Women in Conservation Technology (WiCT) through Ol Pejeta TechLab, Fauna & Flora International (FFI), the WILDLABS and Conservation Leadership Program (CLP) Alumni Network, and the Society for Conservation Biology (SCB). In addition, she volunteers with Kijabe Environment Volunteers to give back to the community.