Submitted by editor on 13 June 2025.

We are happy to welcome Dr. Matthew Grainger, from the Norwegian Institute for Nature Research, Trondheim, Norway, to the Oikos Editorial Board. To know more about him, read our interview below!

Website: https://drmattg.github.io/Uncertain_Ecologist/

What’s your main research focus at the moment?
I would describe myself as a “generalist” ecologist, working across a range of taxa and using diverse methods to explore questions in applied ecology—particularly in wildlife and ecosystem management. My core research focus is on how we can better use the best-available evidence to inform conservation decisions. I’m especially interested in improving evidence synthesis in ecology and in developing tools that support robust systematic reviews and meta-analyses across disciplines.
 
Can you describe your research career? 
My research journey began in South Africa, where I completed my Master’s research on elephants in Kruger National Park. Afterward, I spent two years in Tanzania researching biodiversity in miombo woodlands, before returning to South Africa for my PhD on the restoration of coastal dune forests near Richards Bay in KwaZulu-Natal.
Following that, I moved to the UK to work with the World Pheasant Association, training researchers and conservation practitioners around the world in ecological research techniques. This took me to places like Djibouti, Vietnam, and Thailand—where I still maintain active collaborations on pheasant (and other wildlife) research.
These experiences led to a postdoc at Newcastle University, focusing on evidence synthesis in environmental science. Having spent most of my early career in subtropical ecosystems, I made the bold move to Norway to explore ecological questions in northern environments. I now work on wildlife management, helping to inform local and national policy decisions through applied research and evidence-based guidance.
 
How did you become a scientist in ecology?
To be honest, I never expected to become a scientist. I always loved animals, but I wasn’t particularly academic at school. My grandfather sparked my love for nature by telling stories about the wildlife we encountered. Growing up in several countries, I was endlessly curious about the insects, birds, and mammals we came across during everyday life.
Eventually, I studied Zoology at Newcastle University and worked on various wildlife projects in southern Africa. Along the way, I met many inspiring people who encouraged me to pursue further studies—and that led me to an MSc at the University of Pretoria. From there, I was hooked!
 


What do you do when you’re not working?
Outside of work, I spend most of my time with my border collie, Flikk. In summer, we hike, swim, and cycle; in winter, we explore the forests around Trondheim on skis or snowshoes. It’s a great way to recharge and stay connected to the landscapes I care about in my research. 

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