Work Experience at the Museum

Himal Govind is a final-year Zoology student at Oxford Brookes University with a strong passion for animal conservation. As an aspiring conservationist, he was a part of the museum's National Heritage Scheme and recently completed a work experience placement with the museum's engagement team.

My name is Himal Govind and I’m a final year Zoology student; my educational path has been significantly enhanced by real world experiences at the Oxford University Museum of Natural History. These stints, initially through my sixth form’s partnership with the Natural Science and Heritage Scheme in 2022 and later with the Public Engagement Team, have proven pivotal in connecting my academic studies with practical application.

First my three-week engagement with the Natural Science and Heritage Scheme allowed me to dive deep into the museum's collections, exploring specimens and artifacts that brought my zoological studies to life. This experience provided a hands-on appreciation of biodiversity and the importance of natural history preservation. It was a unique opportunity to see how theoretical knowledge meets practical application, enhancing my understanding of the conservation challenges discussed in class. In 2025, as part of a university module, I joined the Public Engagement Team at the museum for two weeks. This role transitioned from the behind-the-scenes focus to direct visitor interactions, where I was responsible for educating students about specific specimen and helping manage a booth during the museum’s special late-night event. These events, held only twice a year, offer visitors a fun and educational experience after hours. Here I engaged with a diverse audience talking about Ichthyosaur and discussing the significance of other exhibits sharpening my skills in public communication and scientific outreach.

One of the highlights of my time with the Public Engagement Team was leading a youth forum session. This session included fifteen young students and another scientist, fostering an interactive learning environment where we discussed my project research with Fiji banded Iguanas. My role was to create a 2 hour session with a presentation and interactive activities making science approachable and intriguing. This responsibility was not only a test of my knowledge but also a chance to inspire these students about the natural world. These experiences at the museum have been educational and fun linking directly to my academic pursuits and providing a broader context for my studies. They have equipped me with a deeper understanding of how science is communicated and appreciated by the public an aspect that has become increasingly relevant to my career interests. As I near the completion of my degree, I am eager to pursue a path that combines scientific research with educational outreach inspired by the impactful moments I experienced at the museum.

Reflecting on my museum work it is clear that integrating classroom learning with external engagements enriches education and professional preparation. These experiences have not only prepared me for a future in zoology but have also ignited a passion for public engagement in science. Encouraging others to visit the museum is something I would 100% recommend especially for those intrigued by the natural world and our shared heritage. Whether you're a student after a deeper understanding in science, a family looking for an educational outing, or simply a curious individual, the museum offers a treasure chest of knowledge and experiences. Participating in special events like the late-night openings provides a unique glimpse into the vibrant world of science after dark, complete with interactive booths and engaging presentations. For young enthusiasts sessions like the youth forums offer a platform to learn from and interact with scientists in an inspiring and informative setting. These experiences are not just educational; they are a chance to see science in action making the museum a gateway for the natural world.