Alison Copeland

Alison Copeland is a Research Postgraduate (PhD) in the Department of Biosciences at Durham University. Her research focuses on Bermuda’s vegetation communities, particularly invasive plant species and their interactions with indigenous flora. Previously, she served as Biodiversity Officer for Bermuda’s Government, leading projects like the IUCN Red Listing of endemic plants and the Governor Laffan’s Fern recovery initiative. She holds an MSc in Geography from Memorial University of Newfoundland (MUN), where her thesis involved seabed habitat mapping in Newman Sound fjord using multibeam sonar and field sampling.

Her expertise spans marine and terrestrial conservation, with a focus on endangered species recovery, habitat management, and translating science into policy. Key affiliations include MUN’s Marine Habitat Mapping Group and the Royal Botanic Gardens Kew. Awards include the Durham Doctoral Studentship (Faculty of Science) and a Bermuda Public Service Education Award.

Her recent work highlights invasive species dynamics in island ecosystems, biodiversity assessments, and policy frameworks for conservation. She has contributed to over 15 peer-reviewed articles, emphasizing habitat mapping methodologies, invasive species management, and endangered species recovery strategies.

• Awards:
  • $3000 Garden Club of Bermuda Grant (PhD support)
  • Fellow of MUN’s School of Graduate Studies
• Grants:
  • Durham Doctoral Studentship (2022–present)

Her PhD project investigates the ecological origins and interactions of invasive plants in Bermuda, bridging field research with policy recommendations to enhance biodiversity protection.