Judith headed to Brazil for her Master thesis
Judith Fremout is pursuing a Master’s degree in Biology with the specialisation Biodiversity: Conservation and Restoration. For her master’s thesis, she is investigating the role of capybaras in the functioning of the ecosystem in the Pantanal, the largest wetland area in the world. For data collection, she spent several weeks in Brazil with the team of Prof. Jonas Schoelynck.
Why did you choose this thesis topic?
I find it fascinating to gain insight into how ecosystems function, particularly the aspect of zoogeochemistry: the study of the role of animals in biogeochemical cycles. The interaction between terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems makes this especially interesting, due to the differences in dynamics between the two systems. Animals such as capybaras, which live both on land and in water, are potentially important actors in the interaction between the two.
You went to Brazil for your research — how did you approach this?
My interest was sparked by the research of Prof. Jonas Schoelynck and his colleagues on the role of hippopotamuses in the silicon cycle of the Mara River in Kenya. I asked whether I could do my thesis on a similar topic. Prof. Schoelynck suggested that I join them in Brazil, where they would be studying the role of capybaras in the silicon cycle in the Pantanal together with several colleagues. An additional advantage was that I did not have to arrange practical matters such as accommodation or transport myself, as I joined a team from the University of Antwerp.
Why did you choose to go abroad for your research?
The thesis is a great opportunity for biology students to carry out fieldwork in a beautiful natural area, whether in Belgium or abroad. Conducting research abroad gives you the chance to visit unique locations and to study an ecosystem that is very different from what we know in Belgium. Especially if you want to continue doing research abroad after your studies, this is extremely inspiring.
What is your tip for fellow students who would also like to do their thesis abroad?
If you have specific interests or your own ideas for a thesis topic, don’t hesitate to contact professors about them. This way, you can sometimes choose a subject that is not on the predefined list.