Chantelle is an enthusiastic advocate for conservation genetics and biodiversity preservation.
Chantelle is based at the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney and works closely with the Research Centre for Ecosystem Resilience (ReCER) team to translate conservation genetics projects into actionable outcomes for stakeholders, including landholders, community groups, and local, state and national governments.
Her role demands adaptability and a keen understanding of stakeholder needs, requiring her to craft diverse communication products, from research papers to graphics, videos, reports and social media content. She is adept at taking a ‘big picture’ approach by considering the complexities of ecology, planning, legislation and people in meeting her goals.
A typical workday for Chantelle is as varied as her projects, whether she's collecting plant specimens in the field, producing educational videos, writing a blog or analysing survey feedback to enhance communication strategies.
Chantelle's most vivid memory from work is the simple act of witnessing pollen being released from anthers under a microscope for the first time. What she loves most about her job is the freedom to explore all facets of a project, from the science and people behind it, to its potential real-world impacts. A storyteller at heart, Chantelle is passionate about sharing the stories of researchers and conservationists dedicated to preserving biodiversity.
Chantelle's PhD research was focused on plant translocation or rebuilding populations of threatened plant species.
Her favourite plant is the mangrove, which provides critical protection for our shores and serves as habitat for juvenile fish and marine life.
Chantelle's vision for the future of the Botanic Gardens is ambitious yet inspiring: to be a global leader in understanding and championing plant diversity and conservation and fostering a society where plant species lost to the wild, can be protected and ultimately restored. She hopes for a future where urban places and spaces co-occur amongst native, diverse plants and animals.
Chantelle's favourite plant is the mangrove, which provides critical protection for our shores and serves as habitat for juvenile fish and marine life.