CAREERS IN CONSERVATION – DR SAMANTHA MYNHARDT

Dr Samantha Mynhardt is the EWT’s Drylands Conservation Programme new Researcher. Here is a little bit about Sam’s journey to a career in conservation.

Dr Samantha Mynhardt

Job title: DCP Researcher

Location: Stellenbosch

Where did you grow up?  Pretoria

What are your hobbies/things you like to do in your spare time? Hiking, trail running, cycling, guitar.

Any pets? Two cats (even though I’m more of a dog person)

Favourite animal and why: Dog. Dogs are just the best! I can’t resist them.

Favourite food? I’ll take pizza any day.

Pet peeve? Mouth noises. Especially when people make noises with their lips that make my lips itch! haha

Why did you want to work for the EWT?

I love EWT’s work and what the organisation stands for. I have worked alongside the Drylands Conservation Programme for three years now and have seen the passion and dedication with which this team works towards conserving our planet, its species, habitats, and people. I would like my life and work to contribute to such a worthy objective too.

What excites you about this new position?

I am excited to explore the unearthed potential of environmental DNA, both in species research and monitoring and in applied conservation. I am excited to learn more about the field of conservation generally because, as a geneticist and career academic, I haven’t had much experience in applied conservation, and this is where my research can add real value. So I am excited to bring my unique skills to the table to benefit the DCP team, the EWT, and the PLANET!

What are you passionate about? 

I am passionate about South Africa’s unique biodiversity, its multitude of unique biomes, habitats, and species, and I am highly motivated to contribute towards protecting and conserving this biodiversity. I enjoy music, outdoor sports, exercise, and my two incredibly delightful children!

What’s the best advice you’ve ever received, and who did it come from?

It’s hard to say. My dad always encouraged me to stay true to myself, not compare myself to others, or allow others to define me. I know it’s pretty cliche, but it’s still the best advice ever!

What is your go-to feel-good song? 

I feel better when I’m dancing – Meghan Trainor