Teal Elliott – The Project Designer and Manager, & The Ecologist, in training
Hello, I’m Nathyle “Teal” Elliott, though you are welcome to call me Nat or Teal. My father gave me the nickname Teal when I was a child, and in his memory, I chose it as the name for my professional journey.
Personal Introduction
I am an ambulatory wheelchair user and a neurodivergent lifelong learner with a deep-rooted passion for nature and wildlife. From a young age, I felt compelled to protect living things; I once tried to rescue a bee, even after being stung, which eventually led me to become a beekeeper.
I bring empathy, patience, and care to everything I do. At home, I share life with four dogs, two cats, and a garden full of medicinal herbs, trees, and wildlife. I believe that curiosity, humour, and a touch of childlike wonder make life more meaningful, traits that I also bring into my professional world.
Professional Statement
I am an enthusiastic and dedicated individual committed to advancing sustainable conservation and ecology, while also raising awareness of environmental issues within communities. My professional path combines scientific research, project management, and creative problem-solving to tackle real-world ecological challenges.
Currently, I am pursuing a degree in Zoology with Ecology & Conservation, with the goal of completing a Master’s in Conservation Project Management. I am newly certified in Project Design and Management in Conservation (Conservation Standards & Miradi) and QGIS and hold experience in PRINCE2 project management. My aspiration is to support NGOs and conservation organisations by combining strong technical knowledge with practical project delivery.
My academic and professional interests focus on the impacts of human activity on marine ecosystems, particularly littoral zones, mangroves, seagrass beds, and coral reefs, as well as the role of wastewater, microplastics, and hydrology in shaping these environments. I am especially interested in how pollution, disease, and climate pressures affect species and habitats, and how conservation strategies can adapt to these challenges.
I thrive both independently and in collaboration with others, bringing curiosity, organisation, and commitment to every project I take on.
Core Competencies
Project Planning & Management
Experienced in PRINCE2 methodologies and the application of Conservation Standards (Miradi) for effective project design, delivery, and evaluation.
Research & Analysis
Strong background in academic writing, data analysis, monitoring, and survey techniques to support evidence-based decision-making.
GIS & Mapping
Developing proficiency in QGIS for conducting surveys and habitat mapping, with a growing focus on spatial analysis for conservation planning.
Technical Proficiency
Skilled in Microsoft Office Suite, WordPress, ESR (NHS’ CRM) and Miradi, with the ability to adapt quickly to new digital tools and software.
Professional Attributes
Analytical, methodical, and detail-oriented, with a strong solution-focused mindset. Brings adaptability, critical thinking, and a positive attitude to challenges, while committed to continuous learning and growth. Highly organised, dependable, and skilled in conflict resolution, with integrity and a collaborative, trustworthy approach.
Collaboration & Communication
Open-minded and empathetic, with strong active listening skills and the ability to balance teamwork and independent work. Experienced in leading meetings, fostering partnerships, and producing clear, well-structured reports that strengthen collaboration and informed decision-making.
Health & Safety Awareness
Knowledgeable in risk assessment protocols and committed to ensuring safe and compliant working environments.
Core Values & Ethos
I believe sustainability, education, equality, and innovation are essential drivers of positive change. I am committed to working with inclusivity and collaboration at the centre of everything I do, guided by strong principles of environmental stewardship in both my personal and professional life.
Whether conducting field research, designing conservation projects, or facilitating community workshops, I carry an ethos of integrity, respect for both wildlife and people, and a commitment to empowering others through knowledge, inclusivity, and shared action.
Find more on my career’s evolution

“A multicultural, multilingual ecologist-in-training who builds trust through cooperation, fuels collaboration, and champions inclusive, sustainable solutions.”