L to R: Esther, Javier and Maria

A researcher at the Macaulay Land Use Research Institute has collected an award from The University of Navarra, Spain for his practices in supervising visiting students from the University.

Dr. Javier Pérez-Barbería, a Population Ecologist Researcher at the Institute, was invited by the Business-University of Navarra Foundation to collect the Excellence Award for the ‘Best Leonardo Da Vinci Work-Placement during 2008-2009′ during a ceremony which took place in Pamplona, the famous bull running town in Northern Spain, earlier this month.

Under a new initiative from the University, Javier was nominated for the high quality of the training offered, his close and meticulous supervision as well as his efforts to ensure the interns’ progress and social integration within their work environment.

Two of Javier’s former students, Esther Salas and Maria Irigoyen, who joined the Institute as part of the Leonardo da Vinci Mobility Program, shared joint first place for the most complete and interesting placement programme, judged on their ability to make the most of the professional, cultural and personal challenges experienced during their time at Macaulay Land Use Research Institute.

María joined the Institute’s Ecology Group in April 2009 following the completion of her Biology degree at the University of Navarra with Ester joining in July 2009. Both worked with Javier at the Institute’s Glensaugh Research Station studying the effects of thermal stress on habitat use by deer and sheep, as well as monitoring red deer populations across Scotland.

The Leonardo da Vinci program, funded by the European Union, offers placements to graduates wanting to gain working experience abroad. The program aims to help young people acquire professional experience and training as well as enabling the development of their personal, linguistic, and social skills.

Javier says, “I’m delighted that the Macaulay Institute has been recognised for developing programs that improve training, teaching methods and procedures under this new award scheme. Our innovative projects are key to improving the availability and quality of training options for students and recent graduates wishing to carry out work placements abroad and I look forward to further collaboration with The University of Navarra.

“Since 2006 a total of 26 students have been hosted by my team and for some of them the training provided has been instrumental in helping them find full-term employment. This award is shared by all the staff of the Institute and the Research Stations, who provided daily training and support to all our visiting students.”