During May and June 2024, seven students from Bath Spa University (Turing Scheme Funded) and the University of Cumbria travelled to India for a bi-lateral research placement. With the support of Bath Spa University and University of Cumbria staff they collaborated with postgraduates and faculty at the University of Delhi (Centre for Himalayan Studies and Department of Geography) and the GB Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment (GBP-NIHE) Head Quarters in Almora, Uttarakhand.
Here, students highlight the importance and benefits of this international collaboration, featuring their individual reflections from this cross-cultural learning venture.
Our international placement programme brought together students from the UK and India for an air quality and noise pollution survey in North Delhi. This collaborative effort involved field measurements and data analysis. Equipped with instrumentation, we measured air pollutants and noise levels, gaining practical skills in environmental monitoring. Analysing the data revealed insights into pollution sources and impacts, while engaging with local area deepened our understanding of the survey's real-world implications.
Working alongside international peers enriched our perspectives and methodologies, fostering valuable global networks and enhancing our cultural competence.
The hands-on experience provided by this programme was invaluable, bridging the gap between theory and practice in environmental research. Reflecting on our participation, we appreciate the growth in our academic, personal, and professional capabilities. We enthusiastically encourage other students and researchers to pursue future international placement opportunities for their learning and career development.
- Shoryabh Srivastava, University of Delhi
The research placement provided such a diverse and non-linear learning experience that continues to enrich my outlook even after returning to the UK. I knew I would love my time in India, this was enhanced by the wonderful and inspiring team of people I shared the journey with.
They became my friends, and this along with all the new connections I have made in India has been the highlight of the placement. I really enjoyed interacting with the students and researchers at University of Delhi and GBP- NIHE on real-world research activities. Our Indian partners were extremely welcoming with a dedicated work ethic that will inspire me for the rest of my career!
Particularly enriching were the cultural excursions, especially exploring the temples such as Kesar Devi, Katarmal Sun Temple, Shyai Devi, Nanda Devi and Bineshwar Mahadev.
Laura Dennis, University of Cumbria
My time in India will forever be a cherished experience. I met inspiring people and together we shared so many wonderful memories that I hope to nurture and carry forward. As it was my first time to India (and the Himalayas) I was amazed with the beauty and diversity of the landscape. I will remember the walks to beautiful temples and the surreal feeling of the warm mountain breeze as I sat on top of the hillside with the most beautiful sunsets.
The work we undertook provided insight into the strengths of long-term and collaborative approaches to research. In Delhi we had the opportunity to present our air quality data at an international conference with an audience of over 275 people, that was a great next step, building on much smaller undergraduate presentation activities.
At GBP-NIHE we were engaged in a broad range of activities, experiencing a taster of ongoing research projects and approaches. We evaluated documentary and local community disaster data, undertook camera trapping in the local forest, employed dendrochronology, and explored microbiology in the laboratory, and so much more.
I am forever grateful that I was given this experience to explore such a beautiful country and participate in such worthwhile projects.
I am looking forward to developing my future career, drawing upon the experiences this placement has offered me and will always remember my time there fondly.
- Ethan Moncaster, Bath Spa University
The highlight of the placement for me was the opportunity to contribute to ongoing Indian Himalayan disaster research in partnership with GBP-HINE, as this built on my undergraduate dissertation topic. More broadly working with both PhD students from University of Delhi and students/ faculty from GBP-NIHE was inspiring, allowing me to witness the shared passion, work ethic, and dedication to the subject.
It was also a great experience to take part in bi-lateral seminars and to network with international scholars, hopefully fuelling my future academic endeavours. In addition to these opportunities, forming a family with my fellow British colleagues from Bath Spa University and the University of Cumbria is something I will cherish.
Making memories and enjoying the culture as one team has definitely been the best parts of this experience. The magical thing about India is never knowing exactly what each day will bring, and often, this is where the most memorable experiences happen.
Some of my favourite memories include evenings at a local restaurant in Kasar, where we would watch the city of Almora light up across the hill as the sun set, listening to an incredible band play traditional Indian music.
Another highlight was our visit to Syahi Devi Temple, where we unexpectantly shared a meal with a priest and others. There is something so special about India- the sights, the sounds, the colours, the people. It was a privilege to be part of Team India 2024, and I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity. I will carry the memories for a lifetime.
Jasmine Kitson, Bath Spa University
The Departmental Centre for Environment Assessment and Climate Change at GBP-NIHE, alongside UK partners, co-organised a research placement for students from Bath Spa University and the University of Cumbria.
This programme provided a snapshot of current research projects in the institute, developing theoretical and hands on experience. It explored: instrumentation and analytical techniques for atmospheric aerosol measurement, systematic review of documentary and local community sources on disaster events in the Indian Himalaya, soil sampling and analysis, mountain stream post-event (flood) reconnaissance, and advanced chromatographic techniques for environmental applications.
This research exposure to diverse perspectives and methodologies enhances professional development and opens up new avenues for future collaborations and research opportunities. By participating in such research placement programmes, students can contribute to the advancement of scientific knowledge while developing a global mindset and inter-cultural communication skills.
- Nidhi Kanwar, GBP-NIHE
