Fellow MK has integrated into the SalGo Population Ecology Team led by host RS-G, becoming an expert in plant and animal demography through three training objectives:
a. **Analytical Skills (TO1)**: MK enhanced her knowledge in demography and programming through regular meetings and workshops at Oxford on Mathematical Demography and Advanced R Programming, primarily achieved through Work Package 1 (WP STRATEGIES).
b. **Theoretical Knowledge (TO2)**: She deepened her understanding of stochastic demography by collaborating with experts, including Prof. Shripad Tuljapurkar from Stanford. TO2 was largely accomplished through WP STRATEGIES and WP PRESSURES.
c. **Project Management, High-Impact Publications, and Career Progression (TO3)**: By completing a Time and Project Management course and over 100 additional courses from Oxford’s Career Service, MK improved her organizational skills. Regular discussions with Prof. RSG helped her secure a permanent academic position in Slovenia to pursue research in stochastic demography—an unexplored area in her country. TO3 was mainly achieved through WP PREDICTORS and WP STRATEGIES.
MK's training was thorough, facilitating effective knowledge transfer that supported her theoretical advancements and bolstered her confidence as an independent researcher. The host institution meticulously handled the scientific, financial, and administrative aspects of the project. Notably, the fellow faced personal health and family-related challenges during the course of the project; in response, the Oxford University offices, staff, SalGo team members, and especially the host himself offered tremendous support and guidance.
She participated in departmental meetings and seminars, connecting with leaders in biology. MK attended two international conferences:
1. Evolutionary Demography Society 8th Annual Meeting in Paris (March 2023)
2. British Ecological Society annual meeting in Belfast (December 2023)
Additionally, she engaged in outreach activities, such as Researchers' Night in Slovenia (
https://www.nocmoc.eu/(opens in new window)) and a Science Oxford event (
https://scienceoxford.com/(opens in new window)) to explain scientific concepts to children.
The project met its expected impacts by achieving:
- Significant scientific advancements as outlined in point 1.1 Objectives.
- MK securing a permanent position in her desired country.
- Enhanced potential for professional maturity and independence, leading to improved career prospects.