A new generation of environmental professionals is gaining hands-on experience in peatland restoration through the PEAT+ Project, as five Atlantic Technological University (ATU) Donegal students undertake a structured ten-week placement programme running from 13 July to 18 September 2026.

More than a summer internship, the programme forms an important part of ATU's contribution to PEAT+, supporting capacity building, innovation, environmental education and skills development across the island of Ireland. It also fulfils ATU's commitment to provide five ten-week placements focused on peatland restoration and environmental stewardship.

The students, Jamie, Fabio, Conor, Martyna and Erin, bring expertise from agriculture, analytical science and engineering disciplines. Their placements reflect the multidisciplinary nature of peatland restoration, where research, monitoring, conservation and community engagement work together to improve the health of peatland ecosystems.

Throughout the programme, students are contributing directly to live project activities while gaining valuable technical and professional experience. Their work includes environmental monitoring, laboratory method development, electronics and sensor technologies, data analysis, fieldwork, education and outreach, and project communications.
 

Research and innovation

The placements also support several of ATU's research and innovation activities within PEAT+, including the development of portable soil analysis methods, testing innovative monitoring technologies and exploring new approaches to hydrological monitoring and environmental data collection. 

This provides students with exposure to cutting-edge environmental research while creating valuable opportunities for knowledge exchange between academia and practical conservation.

A key element of the programme is the creation of individual e-portfolios, where students document their work, skills development and reflections throughout the placement. They will also deliver presentations in September, sharing their experiences with future placement cohorts.

Importantly, the benefits of the programme extend well beyond 2026. Feedback and learning from this year's placements will help strengthen future cohorts in 2027 and 2028, ensuring continuous improvement and lasting impact.

By investing in student placements, PEAT+ is helping to build the skills, knowledge and environmental leadership needed for the future. 

As these students develop their experience, they are not only supporting the delivery of the project today but helping to become the conservation professionals who will lead restoration efforts in the years ahead.