Focus sur la recherche : rencontre avec Belinda, stagiaire en suivi-évaluation et à l’apprentissage

Graduating in 2023 from the University of the South Pacific (USP) with a Bachelor of Science, double majoring in Biology and Chemistry, has provided a solid foundation for pursuing an internship opportunity at SPC as a PMEL intern. SPC's focus on marine environmental research and technology, as well as LRD's commitment to advancing scientific knowledge in genetic conservation, agricultural and forestry practices, makes my interdisciplinary background highly relevant to the work.

I have also experience as a Quality Assurance Lab Technician. Science is a perspective that empowers us to transform confusion into understanding in a precise, predictive, and reliable manner. After my experience in the biochemical sciences, I wanted to get more practical experience in the field, especially in the technical aspect of research. I was informed about an internship opportunity at SPC by a close friend of mine, which I applied for, and was selected as the intern for planning, monitoring, evaluation, and learning under the guidance of Ms Jane Rose Lutaya.

M&E primarily focuses on producing evidence for accountability and planning, monitoring, evaluation and learning (PMEL) actively engages all staff and managers to enhance programme effectiveness by utilising appropriate tools and methods to address performance questions and integrate learning into programme delivery.  As a PMEL intern, I've had the exciting opportunity to play a key role in facilitating and consulting on critical aspects that contribute to the success of various programmes and projects at LRD. This journey has been a dynamic blend of learning and applying my skills, particularly in research, presentation, and communication.

One of the highlights of my experience has been actively participating in the PMEL staff capacity assessment, where I've worked closely with staff to understand their needs for effective project delivery. This has not only sharpened my interpersonal skills but also provided valuable insights into effective programme management. I'm also enhancing my data management and quality assurance capabilities through hands-on experience with the training database. I have actively collated and cleaned information, all the while following up with colleagues. My role has also taken me to the field in Muaniweni for field monitoring activities, where I've had the chance to see the application of research experiments and trials in a real-world setting. Engaging in knowledge-sharing sessions on various M&E topics has broadened my understanding and provided me with a platform to learn from LRD staff as well as fellow interns. Additionally, my participation in the Plant Health Clinic at Koronivia Research and plant health training at Navuso Training Institute has been incredibly enriching.

During my academic journey, I engaged in various projects that involved data collection and analysis, fostering my critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. These experiences have been and continue to be pivotal in developing my research skills, which I believe are crucial for this internship. The opportunity to work in a dynamic research environment aligns perfectly with my academic background and my aspiration to contribute to knowledge. Overall, my education at USP has instilled a strong scientific foundation and a passion for research, driving me to seek out this internship where I can apply my knowledge and further develop my expertise in a real-world setting and help address issues of the Pacific region.

I have been introduced to many projects, and I have experience in how project management works. The internship offers hands-on practical experience working and documenting on real projects and assignments related to my field of study. This allows me to apply academic knowledge in a professional setting and develop practical skills. Research involvement at SPC equips us with adaptable skills transferable to many careers, such as data analysis, research, communication, presentations, time management and problem-solving. These versatile skills will serve me well throughout my professional journey.

This internship has prepared me to link academic theory to practice, apply knowledge and skills to a work environment, acquire new learning through challenging and meaningful activities, demonstrate professional skills in the workplace, build positive professional relationships, and identify potential areas for further development. These experiences align with my interests and strengths, especially my plans to pursue further studies. The hands-on experience and mentorship provided by experienced staff are invaluable and will forever remain valuable to me as I pursue my career.

I had the chance to visit some project sites in Muaniweni, which turned out to be a fantastic learning experience. Being in the field, I got to see the trials and processes our team was working on up close.  This allowed me to observe the practical applications of theoretical concepts, deepening my understanding.  I have also been exposed to a day of lab training at the Centre for Pacific Crops and Trees (CePaCT) where I got some amazing hands-on training from germplasm and genebank technicians. They taught me how to subculture a Yam plant tissue, which was pretty cool! This practical training not only enhanced my technical skills but also reinforced the importance of laboratory work in research and why attention to detail and proper lab practices are so important when it comes to advancing our understanding and ensuring we’re doing things right.

I have immensely improved my data collection and analysis for internal staff surveys, including gathering researched statistics for factsheets and having takeaways during tea break knowledge exchanges between staff. This collaborative environment has helped us address staff capacity needs and share valuable experiences. Additionally, working alongside the communications team has allowed me to become familiar with various knowledge products, which are crucial for the effective dissemination of research findings.

Equipped with this understanding, I'm resolved to drive change in my intended field of study and fulfil my future professional goals using the acquired skills and knowledge. The experiences and challenges I faced during my research journey have not only shaped my technical abilities but have also instilled a sense of confidence and determination to contribute meaningfully to my field.

The field of research is constantly evolving, so a commitment to continuous learning is vital. Stay curious and open to new ideas and methodologies. Engaging in various projects and topics broadens our understanding and allows us to discover the areas we are most passionate about. This flexibility can also help us adapt to different roles within the research community as our career progresses.

Some advice for young aspiring interns would be to learn as much as you can, given any opportunity. Do not limit yourself to a specific niche; instead, explore various disciplines and techniques that can enrich your skill set and enhance your adaptability. Identifying your motivations for pursuing research is crucial. Understanding your goals will guide your decisions and help you focus on relevant skills and experiences. Any experience, be it big or small, and any exposure gained during an internship are invaluable assets for your future success. Embrace every chance to collaborate, share ideas, and build a network, as these connections can lead to mentorship and collaborative opportunities that significantly impact your career trajectory.