Simon Um

Simon is currently studying a Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Advanced Studies majoring in Marine Science and Ecology & Evolutionary Biology.

Through Simon's course, he has access to some of Australia's pristine waters, conducting research and fieldwork at One Tree Island Research Station.

This year the island commemorates 50 years of marine science and research at the University of Sydney.

Why did you choose your degree and decide to study at the University of Sydney?

I've always been an outdoors enthusiast. Over time, I started to think about careers that would allow me to find a purposeful way to give back and learn more about nature.

Learning about what ecologists do and how they contribute to science felt like the perfect fit.

I chose to study marine science and ecology at the University of Sydney because of the unique in-field study opportunities such as studying coral reefs at One Tree Island in the Great Barrier Reef and conducting marine research at the Crommelin Field Station at Pearl Beach.

What do you like so much about One Tree Island?

One Tree Island is a gem for fieldwork! It's incredibly pristine and protected, which creates a perfect natural laboratory for us to study. The island's exclusivity enhances the research experience, making every day feel like a pioneering expedition.

Carrying out fieldwork around Sydney can be difficult. However, researching on the island offers convenience, with facilities, equipment, and specimens easily accessible.

It was a completely different experience from fieldwork anywhere else.

What does a typical day on the island look like?

Our days started early, right around dawn. We'd have breakfast and load our gear onto the boats, aiming to hit the water before high tide.

At each reef, we spent hours SCUBA diving, identifying and counting fish, collecting biodiversity data, and taking photos to construct 3D models of the reefs. 

Evenings were laid-back and were spent unwinding during the sunset before coming together for dinner and sharing stories of the day.

Each day was a mix of rigorous science and serene island life, a perfect balance that made the experience deeply rewarding.

What's the most valuable experience or skill you gained from your degree?

I’ve always spent a lot of time outdoors, but studying ecology showed me a new way of observing the world around me.

Coursework and assignments have given me the knowledge to describe certain processes or organisms. The more theoretical aspects of my degree, such as learning the scientific method, have given me the language and inquisitiveness to ask questions about how and why things work and fit together.

I have a new appreciation for the complexity of my surroundings, and it’s made both my studies and personal hobbies so much more enjoyable.

What's your honours research focus?

My research focuses on the community ecology of coral reefs.

I will investigate the factors influencing how species assemble in a given area to form a community. Specifically, I want to determine whether these communities are shaped by deterministic factors, such as biological or environmental influences, or if their formation results from random processes.

By understanding the rules governing community assembly, we can better predict which species combinations are most likely to co-exist and where they will best thrive, guiding species selection for restoration projects by ensuring they are ecologically compatible.

I hope to identify patterns among the communities through data gathered from biodiversity surveys taken at One Tree Island. This could reveal new insights into the dynamics of community assembly and its processes.

What advice would you give to future marine science students?

To take the time to get to know the people you meet along your university journey.

Building a network of connections, whether it's been with professors, students or other people in industry, has been invaluable.

You never know what opportunities or collaborations may come up when you are open to sharing your aspirations and not afraid to seek advice.