Although we cannot prevent the effects of urbanization, we cannot afford to ignore the importance of a healthy forest ecosystem that gives us clean air, water, and helps keep the climate stable
Neha Awasthi, our next pathbreaker, Freelance Research Consultant and Scientific Writer, collaborates with research institutions and conservation projects, with a main focus on understanding wildlife ecology and supporting conservation through research, field knowledge, and scientific communication.
Neha talks to Shyam Krishnamurthy from The Interview Portal about her PhD research on understanding how large mammals, especially ungulates like deer, survive and behave in a tropical forest ecosystem such as Kanha Tiger Reserve.
For students, wildlife science requires much more than interest, it needs strong academic, communication and technical skills that help in contributing knowledge that can support better protection of forests and animals
NEHA, Your background?
I grew up in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, India in a middle-class family where education and honesty were strongly valued. My parents were not from a science or wildlife background, but they always believed that children should choose a career based on interest and commitment, not just social expectations. They supported me in choosing a path different from the usual doctor or engineer route. As a student, I always liked biology and was genuinely afraid of mathematics. Most of my friends and even my siblings felt biology was boring and had limited career options, so they avoided it after Class 10. I chose biology simply because I enjoyed learning about living things: animals, plants, and nature.
During school and college, I was curious, observant, and liked spending time outdoors. I enjoyed reading, watching nature-related programmes, and quietly observing how animals and plants behaved. I did not realise at that time that these small habits were building the foundation for my future career. Looking back, my early interest in biology, curiosity about nature, and the freedom my parents gave me to choose my subject were the key factors that shaped my career.
What did you do for graduation/post-graduation?
I completed my BSc and MSc in Zoology, where I developed a strong interest in wildlife biology and ecology. I also did a Post Graduate Diploma in Natural Resource Management from Forest Research Institute (FRI), Dehradun. I realised I needed a PhD which I did from Wildlife Institute of India in Wildlife Sciences
What made you choose a career in Wildlife?
I did not choose this career because of one single moment. It was shaped slowly by my interests, teachers, experiences in the field, and some important turning points in my life.
a) Key influencers
The biggest influencer in my life was nature itself. From a young age, I was curious about animals, forests, and how living beings survive in the wild. I enjoyed observing nature quietly and learning about it through books and documentaries. This natural curiosity kept growing as I studied biology and zoology. Another important influence was my interest in biology. Even when others felt the subject had limited scope, I enjoyed understanding living systems and how nature works.
b) People / mentors
My teachers and mentors played a very important role. During my college years, one of my zoology professors played an important role in shaping my thinking. They helped me understand that wildlife science is not just about loving animals, but about studying ecology, research methods, and conservation science in a systematic way. When I entered WII, I was passionate about forests and animals, but my understanding of ecology and scientific research was still limited. Through structured training, intensive fieldwork, and guidance from mentors, I gradually learned how animals, plants, and ecosystems are deeply interconnected. My PhD Guide taught me how to think scientifically, ask the right questions, and understand ecology and natural history. Their guidance helped transform my passion for forests into a professional career in wildlife science.
c) Events
Wildlife surveys, and long periods of fieldwork were important events that strengthened my decision. Living and working in forests, collecting data, and interacting with forest staff showed me the real challenges and responsibilities of wildlife conservation. These experiences made it clear that this field requires patience, discipline, and strong commitment but it is also deeply rewarding and gives me immense happiness.
d) Turning points
A major turning point was realising that passion alone is not enough. To contribute meaningfully, I needed scientific training, analytical thinking, and good writing skills. Choosing to pursue a PhD was another important turning point, as it gave my career direction and depth. Facing criticism due to being less efficient in walking tough terrains in forested areas during my early research years also became a turning point. Instead of getting discouraged, I learned from it, which helped me grow as a researcher and as a person.
How did you plan the steps to get into the career you wanted? Or how did you make a transition to a new career?
I did not have a perfect career plan from the beginning. My journey happened step by step, through learning, field experience, and guidance from mentors. My approach was to keep moving forward by building skills slowly and taking every opportunity seriously. My thought process was simple: First, I wanted to understand wildlife scientifically, not just emotionally. Second, I focused on getting field experience along with academic learning. Third, I believed that small opportunities, if done sincerely, lead to bigger ones and finally, I stayed patient, because careers in wildlife science take time to grow. I always reminded myself that this field needs long-term dedication, not quick success.
After completing my MSc in Zoology, I joined the All-India Tiger estimation Project at the Wildlife Institute of India to gain field-based experience and a deeper understanding of wildlife in natural habitats. This was one of the most important early steps in my career because it allowed me to work directly in national parks and tiger reserves. During this time, I learned how wildlife research is actually done on the ground, not just in classrooms.
I gained practical exposure to observing animals in the wild, conducting field surveys and monitoring, collecting ecological data, understanding how forests and ecosystems function, working with researchers and forest staff. This experience helped me realise that wildlife biology is a serious scientific field that requires patience, discipline, and strong field skills.
To build deeper expertise, I joined the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) for my PhD in Wildlife Science. My PhD became the most important phase of my career development. During this time, I worked on long-term research in Kanha Tiger Reserve, focusing on large mammals and ungulates. This period trained me in: Scientific research design, Ecology and natural history, Data analysis, writing research papers and reports and independent thinking and problem-solving.
In wildlife science, people and collaborations matter a lot. I built connections naturally through: Working honestly in the field, learning from seniors and mentors, collaborating with researchers and forest department, staying in touch with colleagues and friends from research projects. I learned that networking does not mean showing off, it means building trust through good work.
Some other important things that supported my journey were: accepting feedback and improving continuously, developing strong writing skills, which are essential in research, staying motivated even during uncertainty and balancing passion with discipline. Over time, my path evolved from being a student who loved jungles to becoming a wildlife researcher, writer, and conservation professional.
After completing my MSc in Zoology, I realised that although I had academic knowledge, I did not yet have professional exposure to the wildlife and forestry sector. Coming from a general zoology background, I was not very sure:
- How forest and wildlife research actually happen in the real world
- How to enter this field as a long-term career
- How to connect with the right institutions and people in conservation
While searching online, I came across the PGDM course in Natural Resource Management at the Forest Research Institute (FRI), Dehradun. I appeared for the entrance exam, got selected, and joined the programme.
My main objective was to gain practical exposure and clarity about the field.
This course helped me understand:
- How forest and wildlife research is conducted in India
- How conservation institutions work
- How young students can build a professional path in this sector
It also became an important stepping stone for me, because through this exposure, I learned about organisations like the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) and opportunities such as the All-India Tiger Estimation Project So, the PGDM played a key role in helping me transition from being a zoology student to entering the professional world of wildlife research and conservation.
My PhD focused on understanding how large mammals, especially ungulates like deer, survive and behave in a tropical forest ecosystem such as Kanha Tiger Reserve. The main problem I worked on was: How do ungulate species use habitats, form groups, and respond to predators and changing environmental conditions? This research is important because ungulates are the main prey base for big predators like tigers and leopards. If prey populations are not healthy, predator conservation cannot succeed.
During my PhD, I worked on:
- Long-term field monitoring in Kanha
- Habitat use and spatial mapping
- Group size behaviour of species like chital and sambar
- Predator–prey relationships
- Population ecology and conservation applications
During my time in Kanha, I also got the opportunity to work on radio-telemetry exercises as part of a long-term research project, although it was not the main objective of my PhD. In this work, we used radio-collars to study animals like tigers and dholes. This helped us understand important real-world ecological questions such as:
- How large carnivores move across the forest
- How they search for food and prey
- How young animals disperse and establish new territories
So, radio-telemetry gave me strong exposure to animal movement and predator ecology.
The main spatial work in my PhD was focused on ungulates (deer and other prey species). I used spatial mapping to identify: Areas with high and low ungulate density and Habitat “hotspots” that are especially important for prey populations. This kind of mapping is very useful for forest managers because it helps them plan:
- Grassland and habitat improvement
- Protection of key prey zones
- Better management for long-term tiger conservation
During my PhD, I did an internship at the University of Exeter which was connected to my academic research training.
It gave me exposure to:
- International research methods
- Advanced ecological thinking
- Broader conservation science perspectives
It was a valuable learning experience that strengthened my research skills and helped me see how wildlife science is applied globally.
So, my PhD research directly connects to real-world conservation because understanding prey distribution and habitat quality is essential for managing healthy ecosystems and supporting predators like tigers.
After completing my PhD, I worked in different professional conservation and research roles where I applied my scientific training to real projects.
The Nature Conservancy (TNC)
As a consultant, I specifically worked on assessment of Elephants habitat suitability and corridor connectivity.
Jharkhand and Madhya Pradesh Forest Departments
With government forest departments, my work focused on applied wildlife management. This included: Wildlife monitoring and field assessments, supporting management decisions with scientific inputs, preparing technical reports for conservation action. These roles helped connect research with on-ground forest protection.
Postdoctoral Affiliate at Wildlife Institute of India (WII)
At WII, I continued working in research and academic collaborations. This involved: Writing and publishing scientific work, supporting long-term monitoring projects and mentoring and contributing to conservation science outputs.
How did you get your first break?
My first break came soon after Joining PGDM in FRI when I got the opportunity to join the All-India Tiger Project at the Wildlife Institute of India. This was my first real step into professional wildlife research and fieldwork. I consider it my first break because it gave me a chance to work in National parks and Tiger reserves, and to learn directly from experienced researchers and forest staff. I got this opportunity because I was genuinely interested in wildlife, willing to learn, and ready to work hard in the field. I treated this early experience seriously, and it helped me build confidence, practical skills, and direction for my future career. That first exposure opened the door for bigger responsibilities later, including pursuing my PhD and continuing in wildlife science.
What were some of the challenges you faced? How did you address them?
Like any meaningful career, my journey in wildlife science also came with many challenges. Wildlife research is exciting, but it is not easy. I faced difficulties at different stages, and each one taught me something important.
Challenge no. 1: Choosing an unconventional career Path:
When I chose biology and wildlife science, many people around me felt it was not a strong or secure career option and had limited opportunities. But I trusted my interest and stayed focused. I believed that if I worked sincerely, I could create my own path in this field.
Challenge no. 2: Fieldwork is physically and mentally demanding
Working in forests requires long hours, patience, and courage. Field conditions can be tough, unpredictable, and sometimes even risky. In my early years, I faced many difficult field situations like from physically demanding terrain to unexpected wildlife encounters. I still remember experiences such as slipping on steep hills during fieldwork, facing daily challenges while working in places like Rajaji and Corbett, and moments when elephants charged or when I came across animals like tigers and sloth bears while on foot. I learned step by step, became mentally stronger, and gained confidence through experience. I also learned a lot from forest staff and senior researchers.
Challenge 3: Learning research skills beyond passion
In the beginning, I loved jungles and animals, but I did not fully understand ecology, data analysis, and scientific writing. Wildlife science requires much more than interest, it needs strong academic and technical skills. Through my training at the Wildlife Institute of India and during my PhD, I worked hard to improve my scientific thinking, writing, and research abilities. I accepted feedback and kept learning.
Challenge 4: Career uncertainty and personal responsibilities
Research careers often involve temporary projects and uncertainty. Balancing professional life with personal responsibilities also became challenging at times. I stayed adaptable, continued upgrading my skills, and focused on areas where I am strongest—research, writing, and teaching. Challenges are a part of every career. What matters is not avoiding difficulties, but learning from them and continuing with patience and dedication.
Where do you work now? What problems do you solve?
At present, I work as a freelance research consultant and scientific writer, and I collaborate with research institutions and conservation projects. My work mainly focuses on understanding wildlife ecology and supporting conservation through research, field knowledge, and scientific communication.
My work helps answer important questions such as:
- How are wildlife populations changing over time?
- How do animals use forests and habitats to survive?
- What factors affect conservation success in protected areas?
- How can scientific research support better wildlife management?
In simple words, I help generate knowledge that can guide wildlife conservation and policy decisions.
What skills are needed for this job? How did you acquire them?
This career requires a combination of field and academic skills, such as: wildlife observation and field surveys, data collection and ecological research methods, scientific writing and report preparation, patience, discipline, and teamwork, communication with researchers and forest staff.
I acquired these skills through: My BSc and MSc in Zoology, field experience in the All-India Tiger Project, Intensive training and research during my PhD at the Wildlife Institute of India and continuous learning through writing and collaboration.
What is a typical day like?
A typical day in my work may include: Reading research papers, writing scientific articles, reports, or manuscripts, analysing ecological data, discussing conservation ideas with colleagues, occasionally visiting the field or mentoring students, some days are spent in forests, and many days are spent at a desk doing research and writing.
What do you love about this job?
What I love most is that this work is meaningful. It allows me to stay connected to nature and wildlife, contribute to conservation through science, keep learning throughout life and inspire students and young researchers. I feel proud that my work can help protect forests and wildlife for the future generations. Last but not the least, this job gives me happiness and a sense of sanity.
How does your work benefit society?
My work benefits society by helping people understand and protect wildlife and forests. I study animals and their habitats to learn how forests work and how wildlife numbers change over time. This knowledge is useful because it helps forest officers and conservation groups take better steps to protect animals and nature. Saving wildlife is not only important for animals, forests are also important for humans. Healthy forests give us clean air, water, and help keep the climate stable. Through my research and writing, I contribute to protecting wild animals and their homes, supporting better care of national parks and tiger reserves, keeping nature healthy for future generations and inspiring students to respect nature and choose meaningful careers. In simple words, my work helps both people and wildlife live safely together.
Tell us an example of a specific memorable work you did that is very close to you!
One of the most memorable and close experiences in my life was my long-term research work in Kanha Tiger Reserve during my PhD. For several years, I studied large forest animals like deer and other ungulates to understand how they live, what habitats they use, and how they survive in the wild. This work involved early morning field surveys, walking through forests, observing animals carefully, and collecting data patiently over many seasons. What made this work special was not only the science, but also the journey. I learned discipline, courage, and deep respect for nature. I also worked closely with forest staff and local teams, who taught me many important things about wildlife and conservation. This research is very close to my heart because it shaped me as a wildlife scientist and helped me contribute knowledge that can support better protection of forests and animals. In simple words, Kanha was not just my study site, it became a place where I truly grew as a researcher and as a person.
Your advice to students based on your experience?
Based on my experience, I would like to share a few simple lessons with students:
- Follow your curiosity
Choose subjects and careers that genuinely interest you, even if others do not understand your choice at first. - Do not fear challenges
Every field has difficulties. Challenges help you become stronger and more confident over time. - Start small, but stay consistent
Big careers are built step by step through learning, internships, practice, and patience. - Respect your teachers and mentors
Good guidance can change your life. Always be open to learning from experienced people. - Skills matter more than shortcuts
Focus on building real skills like observation, communication, writing, and problem-solving. - Believe in yourself
When I started, I was also unsure. But with hard work and support, I found my path.
Most importantly, choose a career that gives you both purpose and happiness, because meaningful work always creates a meaningful life.
Future Plans?
My future plans are to continue working in the field of wildlife research and conservation, while also growing as a scientific writer and mentor. I want to:
- Keep contributing to wildlife science through meaningful research and publications
- Support conservation efforts that protect forests and biodiversity
- Work more on connecting science with real-world policy and management
- Guide and inspire as guest or adjunct faculty young students and researchers who want to enter this field
- Build a stable and impactful career where I can balance professional work with family life
I believe that learning never stops, and my PhD is not the end of my journey, it is just the beginning of many more opportunities to explore, grow, and contribute to society.