Charlotte Q
"As an animal nutritionist at Marwell Zoo I gained insight into every stage of the process, from species’ natural history and dietary guidelines to preparing and presenting diets in ways that prioritise health and welfare."
Course
Biological Sciences BScPlacement company
Marwell ZooBiological Sciences BSc student Charlotte spent a year at Marwell Zoo as an animal nutritionist. She is the recipient of the University of Surrey's Professional Training Award 2026 for the Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences.
Describe your placement experience.
I undertook my Professional Training placement year as an animal nutritionist at Marwell Zoo. My role involved a wide range of daily tasks, including completing literature reviews to provide evidence-based solutions to key questions, carrying out dietary reviews, and developing seasonal diet plans. I also led my own research projects exploring how diet influences animal behaviour and welfare. I was selected to present my findings to experts at the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA) Research Conference 2025 at Chester Zoo, and I am now working with Marwell to prepare my research for publication.
Alongside this, I supported other research projects and animal observations, presented at seminars and journal clubs, and completed hands-on husbandry days across all animal sections. I also had the opportunity to engage with the public during my animal observations, sharing information about our ambassador species and conservation work with hundreds of visitors.
What were the best things about it?
One of the best parts of my placement was the privilege of observing and spending so much time with a wide variety of animals each day, getting to know their different personalities and species-specific traits. In my role as a nutritionist, I carried out literature reviews across many species, which helped me build strong background knowledge and a deep understanding of animal nutrition for many taxa. I gained insight into every stage of the process, from species’ natural history and dietary guidelines to preparing and presenting diets in ways that prioritise health and welfare. Connecting with different teams across the park and with industry experts at the BIAZA Research Conference also allowed me to build valuable professional relationships and explore the wide range of career opportunities that will support my future goals.
Have your career plans been informed by your placement?
My placement helped confirm that I want to pursue a future career in animal science, specifically in animal nutrition and behaviour within zoo-housed populations. It showed me the importance of research and evidence-based understanding in ensuring the highest standards of welfare across all aspects of animal care. This experience reinforced my commitment to a career that supports happy and healthy animals and has a positive impact on their wellbeing. My placement gave me all the valuable skills, confidence, and opportunities to pursue my long-term career aspirations.
Left: Charlotte presenting her research findings to experts at the BIAZA Research Conference 2025 at Chester Zoo.
What advice do you have for students considering doing a placement?
I would tell any student considering a placement year to go for it. It’s such a great way to apply what you’ve learnt at university and gain real experience of what it’s like to work in your industry. My main advice is to apply for every placement that interests you, as you never know what new path or passion you might discover. I would also highlight the importance of perseverance. I secured my placement in July and started just two months later in September. Finally, push yourself to take the leap. Like many, I felt unsure, lacked confidence, and feared rejection, but my placement turned out to be an amazing experience, helping me develop both academically and personally in ways I never imagined.
Find out more about our Biological Sciences BSc and our Professional Training placement scheme.
