Susmita Aown
PIPS Host Organisation: Royal Horticulture Society, Wisley Gardens
Project Title: Garden Entomology Diagnostics and Advice

Susmita Aown served as an Entomologist on the Plant Health Team at Wisley Gardens, the Royal Horticulture Society’s home of science. She answered questions about animal pests in private gardens from RHS members using the Gardening Advice Service (GAS). This included diagnosing which insect might be present in the members’ plants and gardens based on descriptions and photographs in their queries. Susmita frequently worked with live and dead animal specimens sent by members to identify the animals. She then used books and RHS plant and animal databases to provide advice on managing the pests.

Susmita developed intermediate pest and disease diagnostic skills in the horticulture industry. The role helped her improve her non-scientific communication skills. She gained confidence in public engagement by leading a public training session on Insect Pests and Diagnostic Workshop in Hyde Hall, one of the RHS gardens. Susmita enjoyed being part of a team and working towards a collective goal. She learned that she works well independently, ticking off tasks that contribute to the bigger goal of the team.

As part of her PIPS, Susmita was invited to an exclusive Entomology club and dinner party, which helped her network. She was also taught to care for museum collections and pin insect specimens, gaining an essential new skill for an entomology job. Susmita was proud to lead the first 2024 RHS garden workshop successfully. She realised that she wants to work as part of a team in the industry, preferably in a job that offers science communication opportunities after her PhD. Susmita loved her PIPS experience.