My RAU experience

I chose to study my PhD at the RAU because my research is closely connected to agriculture, technology, and sustainability. My project focuses on using AI-powered cameras and drones to monitor wildlife, particularly deer, and help protect fruit crops in UK agroforestry systems. The RAU was a good choice for me because of its strong agricultural focus and practical approach to innovation. My experience here has helped me connect new technologies with real challenges in farming and sustainable land management.

I’m really enjoying the practical side of my research, especially seeing how technologies can be used to detect animals such as deer in real agroforestry environments. For me, combining drone technology, camera trap data, and AI is particularly exciting because it brings together my interest in technology and agriculture while also addressing a real problem, protecting fruit crops in a sustainable and wildlife-friendly way.

 

What I gained from the RAU 

My future career goal is to become a university lecturer, as I am very passionate about teaching and working with students. RAU has helped me move towards this goal by giving me the opportunity to work as a Teaching Assistant and teach students. This has been a very valuable and enjoyable experience for me, allowing me to develop my teaching skills, gain confidence, and get practical experience in an academic environment.

As a PhD student at the RAU, I would definitely recommend the university to prospective students, particularly those who are interested in research, innovation, and the practical application of new technologies. One of the things I value most about the RAU is the combination of academic research and practical experience. The university provides access to research facilities, laboratories, field trial areas, and agricultural technologies. For example, there are opportunities to work with modern technologies such as drones and other precision agriculture tools, which can be particularly valuable for research and data collection.

As a PhD student, I also appreciate the supportive research environment. The university provides training in areas such as research methodology, statistics, academic writing, and presentation skills, while encouraging students to present their research and develop professionally.

I would say that studying at the RAU is not only about gaining a qualification. It is also an opportunity to develop as an independent researcher, gain practical experience, work with new technologies, and build skills that can prepare you for a future career in academia or industry. For someone who is curious, motivated, and interested in applying research to real-world challenges, I think the RAU can provide a very valuable PhD experience.