The Society for Environmental Geochemistry and Health (SEGH): building for the future of early career researchers

Abstract

In a 2019 editorial entitled 'The Society for Environmental Geochemistry and Health (SEGH): building for the future' (Watts et al. 2019), SEGH President Dr Michael Watts and all current board members outlined their aspirations and initiatives for the Society's expansion into the new decade and beyond. Central to these efforts was the establishment of a dedicated group of early career researchers (ECRs) within SEGH to foster interaction, collaboration, mentorship and ultimately the expansion of this demographic. SEGH defines ECRs as undergraduate or postgraduate (Masters/PhD) students or as scientists having received their highest degree (BSc, MSc or PhD) within the past 5 years. ECRs currently make up approximately 20% of SEGH memberships, and nurturing growth at grassroots level is a critical strategy in preserving the Society's long-term future if it is to remain relevant in an ever more competitive

SEGH live and beyond

“…For example, ECRs will be involved more prominently in gaining work experience in reviewing and handling EGAH manuscripts alongside experienced editorial board members. All of these activities bear in mind the aspirations of the board set out in 2019 (Watts et al 2019 ) and those of the early career researchers (Humphrey et al 2020 ). Considerable progress has been made despite the COVID-19 crisis, but there is still plenty to do as we approach the 50th anniversary of SEGH.…”

Editorial: The society for environmental geochemistry and health (SEGH): 50 years and beyond

“…Bachelors, Masters or PhD). The ECR programme has been a growing success, gradually finding its feet with a position paper in Environmental Geochemistry and Health from this cohort to suggest the future priorities for SEGH in 2019 (Humphrey et al, 2021 ). This group required nurturing and continued engagement to capitalise on early success.…”