Olivia McCoy

Experience

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  Exploris Aquarium

  Aug 2017 - Aug 2017

  Shadowing a Marine Biologist

  During my time at Exploris Aquarium, I shadowed one of the Marine Biologists working at the aquarium whilst also undertaking my own duties. The days would be filled with tasks to complete such as water temperature checks, feeding schedules, cleaning tasks as well as assisting the aquarium tours for visitors. Even in a short period of time at Exploris, I gained plenty of experience I can and will utilise in the future.

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  Wildlife Sense

  Aug 2022 - Sept 2022

  Sea Turtle Conservationist and Researcher

  During my time in the remote island of Kefalonia, I volunteered for Wildlife Sense for 4 weeks working closely with Loggerhead sea turtles during hatchling season. Duties:• Monitoring the 11 nesting beaches in Kefalonia daily to identify fresh sea turtles nesting activity which are recorded, marked and protected. • Beach and harbor cleans• Beach profile was carried out to understand the changes in the coastal environment through keeping records of sea currents, sand and sediment composition and sea bed coverage. • Night surveys included patrolling beaches with high level of light pollution and shading nests to prevent disorientation of hatchlings. Show less

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  Citizen Sea

  Jul 2023 - now

  Volunteer

  I am currently a committed volunteer with Citizen Sea which is a non-profit marine science charity organisation. Their aim is to inspire others to engage with our marine environment through citizen science, education, research and awareness-rising. My role as a Citizen Sea volunteer involves taking part in events (such as the Belfast Maritime Festival) to spread awareness about marine conservation, as well as local litter picks, conducing education sessions on rock pools and coastal areas, and the operation of their wasteshark drone. Show less

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  Orca Behavior Institute

  Jan 2024 - now

  Scholarship - Bigg’s 201 Course 2024 OBI

  Thrilled to be a recipient of a scholarship, I’m currently enrolled in a 4.5-month remote Bigg’s 201 2024 course led by whale biologist Monika Wieland Shields of the Orca Behavior Institute. I’m diving deep into the world of Bigg’s killer whales of the Salish Sea, enhancing my scientific literacy, and refining my skills in data analysis and interpretation. Through engaging virtual lectures and interactive sessions, I’m honing my ability to read scientific papers and effectively communicate complex concepts. This immersive program not only offers valuable insights into marine biology but also provides practical experience in analysing real-world sightings data and creating impactful visualisations. With bi-weekly Zoom sessions and a final presentation, I’m on track to emerge from this course with a deeper understanding of whale behaviour and the tools to communicate science effectively in a remote setting. Show less

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  Flinders University

  May 2024 - now

  Research Assistant