Cornwall College Lecturer Lands Key Role Shaping Future of Ecology in the South West

Dr Chris Smillie takes on top regional position with leading UK ecology body

Cornwall College University Centre at the Eden Project has announced that Dr Chris Smillie, Programme Manager for MSc Land and Ecological Restoration, has been appointed South West Regional Convener for the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM).

CIEEM is the UK’s professional body for ecologists and environmental managers, and Dr Smillie’s new role connects the University Centre directly to national conversations about the direction of the ecology profession.

Boost for Students and the Region

Dr Smillie brings years of experience to the role, with a background that spans consultancy, international fieldwork and higher education. His appointment is expected to strengthen links between Cornwall College and industry professionals, offering students wider career development opportunities and practical insights into the profession.

“I’m now plugged into a network that can inform the education activities that we have here but also provides a network for students,” said Dr Smillie.

“It’s good for the students, it’s good for their employment prospects, it’s good for developing the programme according to what professionals want.”

Creating Connections Across the South West

As Regional Convener, Dr Smillie will oversee professional engagement in an area covering Cornwall, Devon, Somerset, Dorset, Wiltshire and South Gloucestershire. His focus will be on collaboration, events and career development activities that bring together not just CIEEM members, but the wider conservation and ecology sector.

“My role isn’t just about bringing the committee together. It’s about creating events that appeal not only to CIEEM members, but also to wildlife charities, consultancies and research organisations,” he explained.

“The aim is to build a broader network of people working in conservation and ecology across the South West and beyond.”

Eden Project to Play a Bigger Role

Dr Smillie’s new position further strengthens the role of the Eden Project and Cornwall College University Centre as a central hub for ecological learning and professional exchange. It will help place students in direct contact with professionals, projects and employers from across the region.

“We’re also the only provider in the country offering a postgraduate apprenticeship in ecology so being able to combine that with CIEEM’s support and reach is invaluable,” he said.

Preparing Students for Real-World Challenges

The MSc Land and Ecological Restoration programme is currently being revalidated to enhance its vocational focus and ensure it aligns with current industry needs. The course includes guest lectures, placements and partnerships with sector leaders.

Dr Smillie will also help lead regional discussions on pressing environmental priorities, including biodiversity net gain, changes to planning legislation, peatland and wetland restoration, and the growing importance of coastal and marine habitats.

For more information on higher education at Cornwall College University Centre at the Eden Project, visit www.cornwall.ac.uk/eden.

📷Dr Chris Smillie, lecturer for Cornwall College University Centre at the Eden Project, has been appointed South West Regional Convener for CIEEM