“After spending years diving the Great Barrier Reef, I have a strong connection to it, and feel privileged to work in an agency that contributes to the conservation and protection of the Reef.”
Bachelor of Biological Sciences alumna, Tijen Anderson, has turned her love of diving, and the Great Barrier Reef, into a rewarding career with the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority.
“I work for Australia’s reef management agency, which leads the global effort to preserve and protect the Great Barrier Reef.”
“As Project Officer, my role involves collating, analysing, synthesising and communicating information about the health of the Reef. This includes forecasts and the status of climatic, environmental, and coral reef health conditions on the Great Barrier Reef over the summer months.”
“I also prepare reports for internal colleagues and external partners to inform situational awareness of coral reef health and support marine park management,” Tijen says.
“I love the experience this role has given me, particularly in enhancing my skills in report writing, statistical analysis and data management.”
Tijen was inspired to study biological science after a high school trip to La Trobe’s Bundoora campus.
“I was unsure of the direct path I wanted to take after finishing high school but knew I wanted to study something wildlife or environmental related.”
“I remember visiting La Trobe’s Bundoora campus in high school and immediately wanted to study there. La Trobe offered a Bachelor of Biological Sciences, which seemed like the perfect path to start exploring my interests.”
However, it was a field trip to the Heron Island Research Station in the Southern Great Barrier Reef that put Tijen on her current career path.
“When we arrived at Heron Island, I knew this was where I wanted to be. I am now fortunate to work among passionate colleagues and scientists who make the Reef Authority such a great environment. I still pinch myself about how lucky I am to be working on the Great Barrier Reef!”
Read more about Tijen's career.
