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  • LinkedIn profile
    https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashley-jenkin-1bb831227/
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  • ORCiD profile
    https://orcid.org/0009-0000-5215-2266
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Ashley Rae Jenkin

Overview of thesis

My master's research focuses on investigating the association between insect visitation rates and plant reproductive output, particularly in the context of native Western Australian floral species that are not maintaining successful offspring recruitment. This work is a collaboration between Kings Park Science (DBCA/BGPA) and Edith Cowan University centred around using camera trapping technology to answer key questions pertaining to pollination ecology and biology.

Kings Park is an important remnant bushland in the heart of urban Perth that holds both cultural and conservation values for the people of Western Australia (and visitors alike). Akin to most urban bushland remnants, Kings Park faces intensified biotic and abiotic stressors that have the potential to impact the recruitment and fitness of native plants. A key identified threat is pollinator limitation whereby native insect pollinator populations and movement are limited by increasing inter and intra habitat isolation and fragmentation, and the intensifying drivers of insect decline across the urban matrix. This has the potential to reduce floral visitation and decrease successful pollination events of native flora, which could be devastating for the valued bushland. My work will aid in identifying the relationship between insect pollinator visitation and the reproductive performance of native flora to facilitate management actions within Kings Park and support continued and much-needed research into pollination ecology in urban remnants.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor of Science (Environmental Management), Edith Cowan University (2019-2023)

Research

Research Interests

  • Pollination ecology with a focus on urban systems
  • Pollinator networks
  • Buzz pollination
  • Native bee and wasp taxonomy
  • Invasive species (insect)
  • Native flora with a focus on Banksia and Eucalyptus / Corymbia biology
  • Science communication

Past Research employment history

  • 2021 – Current. Science Engagement Presenter, Edith Cowan University.
  • Dec 2023 – March 2024. Summer Scholarship Internship, Kings Park Science/ Edith Cowan University.
  • June 2024 – Current. Research Assistant, Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions.

Other work

  • Feb 2022 – Current. Research Associate (Entomology), Western Australian Museum

Scholarships and Awards


2023 - 2024 Summer Scholarship, Kings Park Science/ Edith Cowan University

2023 Nathan Rowe Science Engagement Award, Edith Cowan University

Supervisors

  • Associate Professor Eddie van Etten (Edith Cowan University)
  • Dr Lizzy Lowe (Edith Cowan University)
  • Dr Siegfried Krauss (Kings Park Science/ DBCA/ BGPA)
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