The PhD Project was awarded a generous grant from Sea-Changers, a marine conservation charity, to support our drone-based seal research at the Ythan Estuary. This funding is crucial for providing the on-the-ground assistance needed to ensure safe and effective drone flights, while safeguarding the delicate wildlife of the reserve. It's all the people on the ground who make my research possible. I’m excited to introduce Grace, read on to hear her reflections on the role! Hello, my name is Grace Green, I’m about to start my 3 rd year of Wildlife and Conservation Management with SRUC Aberdeen, and I LOVE the beach! Interning with Claire Stainfield was truly a dream come true. Not only for the opportunity to work on the beach every week for 6 weeks but because Claire is an excellent human being from whom I have learned so much. Particularly: professional practice, scientific rigour, good humour, and welcoming people in simply by being yourself. My joy on the beach has always been ...