Inside Operation Wallacea - Field Expeditions, Biodiversity Research and Career Pathways | Dr Tom Martin

Conservation Careers Podcast · Feb 25, 2026 · 59m

From cloud forests to coral reefs - how Opwall blends science, education and conservation impact with Dr Tom Martin, Head of Research at Opwall

Did you know that Operation Wallacea has taken more than 50,000 students into the field over the past 30 years.

But what actually happens on an expedition? How does the science work? And how can an experience like this shape an entire conservation career?

In this episode, I’m joined by Dr Tom Martin, Head of Research at Opwall, to unpack how their unique model combines rigorous academic research with hands-on field training across nine countries…