Meet Our Team

Jarrett is a passionate South African Nature Conservationist. After recognising the great imperative to look after our natural world, he moved away from his successful career in Graphic Design to study Nature Conservation at Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (SAASVELD). Over many years, he has been guiding and educating a multitude of volunteers and students in the bush. He has also assisted rural communities by teaching young children about the importance of African wildlife, conservation practices and a respect for natural resources.

It is his belief that through a deeper understanding of nature, humankind may learn to work in harmony with the Earth, and that in this endeavour research plays a critical role. He joined the AERU team in February 2021. He has recently enhanced his skillset with a Postgraduate Business Management Degree from The University of Stellenbosch, to guide AERU into a successful and exciting future.

Dakota is our esteemed Research Officer, based in the Western Cape, South Africa. Possessing a BSc in Animal Science and currently advancing a scholarly pursuit with an MSc in Animal Nutrition, Dakota’s commitment to wildlife conservation is underscored by a distinguished background in rhino conservation. With a focus on various game animals such as buffalo, kudu, and nyala, Dakota brings her unique knowledge to our team. An ambitious professional with an insatiable appetite for knowledge, Dakota oversees all research practices at AERU, managing daily on-site research with volunteers, coordinating international students on research projects, and conducting impactful research for the broader scientific community.

Jason has joined our team to strengthen the scientific integrity of our lab work while also mentoring volunteers and students along the way. Having grown up on a farm in nearby Sedgefield, he has always held a deep connection with nature and animals. Jason brings not only expertise but also an enthusiastic energy. His passion for science, nature and people, makes him a true asset to AERU’s mission, future growth, and the evolution of our laboratory.

Keira is completing her internship at AERU (African Elephant Research Unit) at Knysna Elephant Park while pursuing a diploma in Nature Management. With a deep passion for wildlife and conservation, she finds working closely with elephants incredibly fulfilling. She loves connecting with volunteers, sharing knowledge, and contributing to research that protects these gentle and intelligent animals. For her, every day is an opportunity to further enhance our volunteer programme experience while doing what she loves.

Yulynne is a passionate student pursuing a diploma in Nature Management with a deep love for animals and the natural world. She has gained hands-on experience in conservation through projects including prescribed burn research at Brackenridge Estate, environmental education with Ocean Blue Adventures, alien plant clearing, and bird ringing with CapeNature. Having grown up in Plettenberg Bay, she is familiar with the local environment and considers it a privilege to contribute to elephant conservation and research, working with these gentle giants.

AERU offers internship roles, typically for candidates pursuing careers in biology, conservation, or related fields. These are offered over periods of 6-12 months and include accommodation. Please contact research@aeru.co.za for more information on how to apply.