Harnessing science, engineering and technology to protect rivers and at-risk species

Sam Rebeiro developed a keen interest in environmental science during his early academic studies. Following a successful summer internship at RSK Group company Fishtek Consulting, he went on to join the business as a graduate in 2022 before being promoted to the role of environmental scientist last year.

How a career in environmental science attracted Sam to Fishtek

Learning how scientific evidence can be used to protect ecosystems, especially aquatic environments, gave Sam clarity about his career path. He went on to focus on gaining practical experience alongside his studies at the University of Plymouth.

He said: “Fishtek stood out to me because of its applied, evidence‑led approach to solving environmental challenges. The company combines ecology, engineering and technology, delivering tangible improvements to river connectivity and fish passage.

“I was particularly drawn to the business’s commitment to constantly seek improvements to the industry with the creation and implementation of novel designs to improve fish passage and widen our understanding of aquatic science. Upon meeting the team during my internship, I also realised how great the company culture was, and that was really appealing too.”

Supporting environmental projects across the UK, from Orkney to Cornwall

In his role as an environmental scientist, Sam supports projects across the UK, from as far north as Orkney to the most southern tip of Cornwall. Since joining Fishtek, he has gone from primarily supporting fieldwork and analysis to taking on greater responsibility across project delivery and management, bid writing and reporting.

Together with a multidisciplinary team of environmental scientists, engineers and fisheries specialists, he works on projects that include baseline habitat surveys, fish passage assessments and river restoration.

Sam’s job is incredibly important in helping to improve river connectivity. It also supports ecological improvements by providing robust scientific evidence to inform design and operational decisions. This benefits the environment directly, while helping regulators, infrastructure operators and communities better balance environmental protection with essential services.

Sam said: “One project that particularly stands out was an eel screening scheme at a drinking water abstraction point at Lopwell Dam on the River Tavy in the south-west of England. The project was significant due to the critically endangered status of the European eel and the site’s dual role as both a vital water supply and an important ecological corridor.

“I was involved from the early design investigation stage, where we assessed saltwater intrusion risk, hydraulic conditions and suitable construction materials to ensure the screens met both regulatory requirements and operational constraints. The final design incorporated 2 mm screen gaps and reduced approach velocities, ensuring juvenile eels could safely avoid entrainment while maintaining abstraction efficiency.

“As well as supporting the installation of the screens, I was also involved in filming them, helping to communicate the project’s environmental value to a wider audience. The scheme was later featured on local BBC News and nominated for the Institute of Civil Engineering South West Civil Engineering Awards, highlighting both its technical quality and its positive environmental impact.

“What made this project stand out was its combination of innovative engineering, regulatory compliance and meaningful ecological protection, directly contributing to the recovery of a species whose population has declined by over 90% in recent decades.”

The skills needed to be a good environmental scientist

Due to the nature of his role, Sam often works in challenging field conditions – from remote locations and variable weather to unsociable hours depending on monitoring requirements. However, he said these challenges are managed through good planning, teamwork and maintaining a flexible and pragmatic approach in the field.

Sam added: “A good environmental scientist needs strong technical skills, attention to detail and the ability to interpret data accurately. Just as important is the ability to communicate findings clearly to a range of audiences. Adaptability, curiosity and a collaborative mindset are also essential, as projects often involve dynamic environments and multidisciplinary teams.”

Focusing on continuous professional development

Fishtek has supported Sam’s development through the years with hands-on learning, mentoring from experienced colleagues and opportunities to work across a wide range of projects. He has been encouraged to take on increasing responsibility, which has significantly built his confidence and technical capability as an environmental scientist.

More recently, he has had the opportunity to lead the team in progressing with technology by performing drone surveys, as well as using a 360-degree camera to carry out detailed site assessments: “Over the coming months, I’d like to continue developing my technical expertise in environmental monitoring and reporting, while taking on more of my own projects.

“I’m also keen to further understand how our work contributes to long-term environmental improvements and informed decision-making.”