Congratulations to Dr Lynn Dicks, University Lecturer in Animal Ecology at the Department of Zoology on her recent appointment of Board Member for Natural England. Her responsibilities as board member will last for 3 years. Natural England is the government’s adviser for the natural environment in England. This is a Public Appointment, made by Defra Ministers, through open competition. Board members play an important role in providing leadership for the organisation, ensuring the delivery of Natural England’s mission to build partnerships for Nature recovery, in support of the Environmental Improvement Plan. This includes setting strategy and direction, agreeing objectives, overseeing performance and taking important decisions such as designations of protected areas.