Meet our new researcher: Alexia Calvel

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At the beginning of this month, Alexia Calvel joined IGRAC as our new researcher. She has already been part of the team as an intern for three months and will now be involved in several activities related to WHYMAP and Groundwater for Refugees. Time to sit down for an interview to get to know this member of the IGRAC team. 

What is your academic background?

"I have a background in Hydrogeology and Environmental Geosciences and I recently obtained a second MSc degree in Water Management and Governance at IHE Delft. My recent thesis with the Netherlands Red Cross, focused on how effective drought warning dissemination and communication in Malawi is in triggering and early action for end users. Through this experience I gained valuable knowledge on impact-based forecasting and disaster risk management in developing countries."

What is your work experience?

"I have 2 years of work experience as a project hydrogeologist consultant in groundwater contamination and remediation in the UK. At the same time, I was volunteering for an NGO in the UK as a project officer. I used to provide emergency support to various tasks including finding and critically evaluating information, communicating effectively and managing Groundwater Relief volunteers located throughout the world."

Why did you apply at IGRAC?

"Well, I used to have a technical background, and through my volunteering experience I realized that I wanted to bring a more societal context to my work and IGRAC bridges those two worlds. This is why I got very interested in this organization. I started at IGRAC as an intern to support them on various tasks in Western Africa and after my internship I had the chance to be offered a contract and here I AM!"  

What do you expect from your time at IGRAC?

"I believe IGRAC is a very resourceful organization and holds an extensive knowledge and experience on groundwater resources management and governance. It is great place to develop my skills and knowledge in the international development sector. Plus, it is a young a dynamic team which makes it a very enjoyable environment to work in!"