Can you introduce yourself?
My name is Quinten Struik, I am a PhD candidate and a lecturer at the FNWI for the Bachelor's and Master's in Biology. I am the course coordinator for the Bachelor's course Applied Ecology and one of the coordinators of the Master's Field course. I have been teaching for a while already, for over 6 years (both at Dutch Secondary schools and here at the FNWI).
Why did you choose to study/work in this field? What makes this field so interesting?
I completed my Master's here at the FNWI and did my research internships at the Department of Ecology, where I developed my research interest. The nitrogen crisis, climate change, greenhouse gas emissions, overfishing, offshore wind farms, desertification, these are all hot topic topics that affect nature and biodiversity. At the moment there is a growing awareness that the biodiversity of flora and fauna is declining worldwide and that nature needs to be restored and existing species need to be preserved. So it speaks for itself that more and more biologists who have knowledge of this are needed.
I like the flexibility that you have as a PhD candidate, there will be no day that feels repetitive. For me, my research feels like solving a puzzle, that with every answer you can solve part of it. However, it also brings in new questions. Also, as a PhD candidate, you combine practical work with office work- and teaching, which makes my work fun!
What are you currently doing your own research on?
I am currently researching the magnitude, drivers, and potential mitigation strategies for aquatic greenhouse gas emissions. Did you know that approximately 50% of global emitted methane comes from aquatic ecosystems?
What advice do you have for students making their study choice?
Think about what your interests are, and what do you like to do. Explore the job market, what would be your potential dream job?
What is the best part of being a lecturer?
I like it when I can share part of my research with my students, it feels like sharing my passion with students who have a similar passion for ecology! I like that when teaching, students share their vision of certain topics, resulting in inspiring conversations and leading to interesting dialogues.