Julie holds a B.Sc (Hons) in Ecology and an M.Sc. in Ecological Assessment, both from University College Cork, in addition to and a Ph.D. in agri-ecology awarded by University College Dublin. Julie has experience in a wide range of ecological assessments and report writing and has strong generalist field ecology skills in both terrestrial and riparian habitats. She has developed a high level of proficiency in identifying the broad range of botanical species that are found in Ireland and has a keen interest in all things freshwater, particularly invertebrates. Julie has given numerous presentations on various aspects of her studies and work including publishing peer-reviewed journal articles and contributing to citizen science projects aimed at enhancing participant knowledge of riparian habitats and alien invasive species.