Francesca Gray

I am an ecologist with a passion for applied research and data science in an ecological setting.

I am nearing completion of a NERC-funded PhD, researching the effects of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in wild bird populations at the University of Aberdeen, in collaboration with the Swiss Ornithological Institute (Vogelwarte). My main focus during my PhD was to understand how individuals vary in exposure and consequences of POPs across geographical, temporal, migratory and life-history data, in the Alpine swift (Tachymarptis melba).

I currently have four peer-reviewed publications (two first-author publications). The first chapter of my PhD has been published (available here), with another two currently as advanced manuscripts.

Last updated: 23/09/2024

Key academic interests

Ecology

Wild populations are facing more anthropogenic challenges than ever. My current research explores the exposure and consequences of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in the Alpine swift, (Tachymarptis melba).

Applied research

Ensuring research can be applied to real-world challenges is vital. In this, I have ensured the publication of my research throughout my career, with my undergraduate, masters and research assistant position all resulting in peer-reviewed publications.

Data Science

During my PhD, I realised that my favourite aspect of research is data; from data management and data wrangling, to statisical analysis and data visualisation. I am committed to continuous learning and development in this sector.

Application of technology in research

The application of developing technologies to biological sciences opens up research questions we could not previously answer. I have worked with a behavioural recording system, RFID tracking and GLS loggers to answer a range of questions.

Social Foraging System - Newcastle Univeristy

Get in touch

Good ways to reach me are through email or twitter. Both can be found below: