Citizen Science in Action: How Volunteering with Operation Cetacean Sparked My Scientific Journey

By Amanda Brown

Members of the original Operation Cetacean team gather for their first meeting at Berry Head, united in their mission to research and protect harbour porpoises in the Torbay Marine Conservation Zone.

From Ecotoxicology to Cetaceans: My Path into Citizen Science

A few years ago, while searching for volunteer opportunities in Torbay, I stumbled upon the term “citizen science.” With a background in Ecotoxicology and a full-time job in Early Years education, I was craving a side project that would reconnect me with hands-on science. That’s when I discovered Operation Cetacean and their porpoise monitoring initiative.

I applied as a volunteer researcher and was soon out in the field, training to collect data and contribute to marine conservation. It was the perfect blend of purpose, passion, and scientific inquiry.

What Is Citizen Science?

Citizen science refers to the involvement of volunteers in collecting, analysing, and classifying data for scientific research. According to the UK Environmental Observation Framework, it plays a vital role in both education and large-scale environmental monitoring.

While the term gained popularity in the 1970s, the concept dates back to the 1800s. One of the earliest examples was Wells Cooke, an American ornithologist who invited volunteers to record bird migration data on physical cards that are still being digitised today.

Today, citizen science spans a wide range of projects:

• Monitoring porpoises and dolphins in UK waters

• Recording species in rock pools during bioblitz events

• Participating in turtle conservation in the Maldives

• Digitally analysing microscope slides from historic archives

The Rise of Online Citizen Science Platforms

Platforms like Zooniverse have revolutionised citizen science, making it accessible to people of all ages and backgrounds. Volunteers have even contributed to major discoveries—such as the identification of 28 new exoplanet candidates, published in the Research Notes of the American Astronomical Society in 2019.

Whether you're a student, a retiree, or a working professional, these platforms offer flexible ways to engage with science from anywhere in the world.

How to Get Involved in Citizen Science

Getting started is easier than you might think. You can:

• Register with organisations like the Wildlife Trusts or local conservation charities

• Sign up for online platforms like Zooniverse to choose your area of interest

• Launch your own project and recruit volunteers, as I did with Operation Cetacean

The key is to ask questions, explore opportunities, and take that first step.

Why Citizen Science Matters

The benefits of citizen science are profound:

• Access to real-world research and data

• Development of new scientific methods and ideas

• Breaking down barriers in academic research

• Building skills and improving employability

• Connecting with passionate, like-minded individuals

• Enhancing mental well-being through meaningful engagement

From tallying birds on index cards to tracking porpoises in Torbay, citizen science has evolved into a powerful tool for education, conservation, and community building.

Learn more about how to keep marine life safe!