Lydia R Dootson
Lancaster,Lancashire
Summary
Dedicated professional with expertise in animal husbandry and welfare monitoring, specialising in avian care and management. Proficient in diet preparation and enrichment, ensuring biosecurity and health compliance. Skilled in behavioural observation and documentation, complemented by strong teamwork and communication abilities. Holds a full UK driving licence. Committed to advancing animal welfare through continuous learning and application of best practices.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
Work history
Biology Technician
Lancaster Royal Grammar School
2023.09 - 2026.01
- Preparation of laboratory equipment for biology practicals
- Maintaining laboratory safety and stock levels
- Supporting staff and students during practical sessions
Bird Keeper (Placement)
Chester Zoo
2025.06 - 2025.09
- Daily husbandry of species including Javan green magpies, Socorro doves, Waterfowl, Hornbills and many different Passerines.
- Diet preparation and feeding regimes.
- Enclosure cleaning, maintenance, and biosecurity procedures.
- Enrichment creation and welfare monitoring.
Animal Caretaker
2025.06 - 2025.09
- Care of mammals including Lechwe, Barasingha, 4 species of tortoise, sheep, donkeys, goats, harvest mice and cats
- Care of birds including chickens and cockatoos
- Care of reptiles including bearded dragons and leopard geckos
- Daily feeding, cleaning, health checks, and record keeping
Medical Laboratory Assistant
Royal Preston Hospital (NHS)
2018.03 - 2022.04
- Processing and preparing patient samples
- Strict adherence to health, safety, and confidentiality protocols
- Training and supporting new staff
Education
MSc - Zoo Conservation Biology
Manchester Metropolitan University
Manchester 2024.09 -
BSc (Hons) - Biomedical Science
Manchester Metropolitan University
2020.09 - 2023.09
Skills
- Animal husbandry and welfare monitoring
- Avian care and management
- Diet preparation and enrichment
- Biosecurity and health compliance
- Behavioural observation and documentation
- Teamwork and communication skills
- Flexible availability, including weekends
- Full UK driving license
References
Available upon request.
Affiliations
- In my free time I like playing the guitar and attending live performances. I also enjoy travelling and visiting new places and spending time with my family and friends. I love all kinds of animals and am interested in the conservation and wellbeing of endangered species
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Bird Keeper (Placement)
Chester Zoo
2025.06 - 2025.09
Animal Caretaker
2025.06 - 2025.09
MSc - Zoo Conservation Biology
Manchester Metropolitan University
2024.09 -
Biology Technician
Lancaster Royal Grammar School
2023.09 - 2026.01
BSc (Hons) - Biomedical Science
Manchester Metropolitan University
2020.09 - 2023.09
Medical Laboratory Assistant
Royal Preston Hospital (NHS)
2018.03 - 2022.04