Even though many of our graduates will have progressed in their careers since completing a case study, they are still of interest to students who wish to gain an understanding of the world of work.

As Senior Ranger for the Kākāpō Recovery Programme I support the Kākāpō Recovery Team in its technical, scientific and management work to ensure that recovery goals for this critically endangered species are achieved.

A typical day may involve liaising with research collaborators or veterinarians, overseeing data management, writing technical documents and protocols, reviewing and advising on management practices, putting together newsletters and being involved in outreach activities. When I am based in the field I monitor and capture Kākāpō, carry out health checks, fit transmitters, and take samples.

I love the diversity of tasks involved in my work. There's always something new to challenge me. My job combines many of my interests and ornithological skills, and gives me opportunities to keep developing them and acquire new skills.

The field work can be very intense. The islands where Kākāpō reside have rough terrain and dense vegetation, making it difficult to get around. Kākāpō are nocturnal so much of the work has to be carried out at night.

Birds have always fascinated me. Being able to apply my knowledge and experience to help a critically endangered bird is a dream come true.

My background in animal behaviour research is essential in my work, as are my skills in ornithological field work.

Since finishing my PhD in 2014, I have worked on a number of ornithological research projects, including being the Ornithological Warden at the Calf of Man Bird Observatory where I monitored breeding and migrating birds, Senior Research Assistant for the RSPB on Fair Isle studying at-sea movements of seabirds, and Research Assistant at University College Cork working on cognition in great tits. I also qualified as a bird ringing trainer under the British Trust for Ornithology bird ringing scheme.

I have a permanent job with the Department of Conservation, and there is lots of scope for me to progress within the Kākāpō Recovery Programme, so I am planning to stay with the team long-term.

Make sure you get plenty of practical experience to build skills that compliment your degree.

I am grateful for the ongoing support I have received from researchers from the University of Sheffield Animal and Plant Science department.