Science Week 2024 Profiles - David Palmer
During National Science Week 2024, the EPA are celebrating some of our high achieving scientists. Our team members make a difference to our environment through assessment and regulation of pollution, waste, noise, and radiation.
David Palmer is a Senior Environment Protection Officer - Water Quality, working in the EPA’s Environmental Science Branch.
- How long have you worked at the EPA? 15 years.
- Why did you want to work in the science field? After a complete career change, I was very keen to embark upon something completely different that would challenge parts of my brain I hadn’t used since school. I viewed the Environmental Science field as a good mix of field work and office-based activities in an area which I was passionate about.
- What is a typical day in your role? It could range from sampling and monitoring of local creeks and rivers in relation to a pollution incident, to evaluations and auditing of large-scale environmental harm. The methods of sampling are quite varied, so I could be in a pair of waders, on a boat, a kayak, or hovercraft! My office time is used to undertake environmental assessments and write scientific reports.
- How is your work making a difference to the state? Over the years, my role has required me to create and implement environmental management, compliance and monitoring programs. The results of these programs have been used to mitigate potential environmental and health risks, by the EPA and other government organisations. My role also enables me to provide specialist water quality advice in the planning stages of environmentally significant structures and activities in sensitive areas of the State.
- What advice would you offer someone who is interested in a career in science? Environmental Science can be a highly rewarding career if you are passionate about continually learning in a diverse field of work. I think it is important to be open to taking opportunities when they present themselves and be willing to follow those opportunities to wherever they may take you. You might be surprised where you end up.
