Testing the Limits. Can Nitrate Levels be Used to Safeguard the Health of UK Rivers? The Critical Reflection of an Undergraduate’s Introduction to Independent Research

Authors

  • Federico White

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.31273/reinvention.v18i2.2042

Keywords:

Nitrate pollution, Riverfly abundance, Safeguarding UK rivers, UK river health

Abstract

The novelty of independent research is always a memorable experience, although never for the reasons expected. The responsibility of designing and executing an original project; the uncertainty of having to cope with issues as and when they arise. While I can attest to this being a positively enriching experience, it was certainly not without its drawbacks. Since the majority of these were a product of my shifting priorities, this came to define my project. Akin to a trial by fire at times, I thus attained a better understanding of the realistic expectations that ought to come with carrying out research, at any level, alongside the strengthening of my resilience to setbacks – although it did not feel as such at the time. Met with unfavourable circumstances, I nevertheless produced a comprehensive academic poster that has since allowed me to present at multiple conferences. Furthermore, I have taken my experience here and the desire to undertake research onto the next project and will continue to do so going forward.

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Published

31.10.2025

Issue

Section

Critical Reflection