RACHEL NEWPORT
Dumbarton,United Kingdom
Summary
Zoology and Bioscience student at the University of the West of Scotland with a strong academic foundation in ecology, biodiversity, and environmental science. Currently undertaking aquarist placement experience at Sea Life, conducting environmental monitoring and supporting animal husbandry within a professional zoological setting.Developed practical experience in field-based ecological sampling, water quality assessment, and species identification through university fieldwork and placement activities.Highly motivated to gain hands-on experience within ecological consultancy, with particular interest in protected species surveys and habitat assessment
Overview
6
6
years of professional experience
Work history
Aquarist Placement
Merlin Entertainments
Balloch, West Dunbartonshire
2025.11 - Current
- Conduct daily water quality testing across multiple tanks, monitoring chemical parameters including ammonia, sulphate, nitrite, nitrate, pH, and other key indicators to maintain healthy aquatic environments
- Record and interpret environmental data to optimise aquatic conditions and enhance animal welfare
- Assist with animal husbandry, manage feeding schedules, and maintain habitats to support overall animal health
- Support biosecurity procedures and maintain high enclosure standards
- Observe and report behavioural or welfare concerns to senior aquarists
- Work collaboratively within a professional zoological team
Macroinvertebrate and Water Quality Field Survey
University of the West of Scotland
South Lanarkshire
2025.10 - 2025.10
- Conducted freshwater ecosystem assessments through macroinvertebrate kick sampling to evaluate ecological health
- Identified freshwater macroinvertebrates using taxonomic keys
- Recorded in-situ water quality parameters, including pH, temperature, conductivity, and salinity, to support water quality monitoring efforts
- Collected and labelled water and sediment samples following standardised field protocols
- Assessed habitat features including riffles, pools, and riparian vegetation
- Contributed to biodiversity analysis, utilising bioindicator species to assess river health and inform conservation strategies
Volunteer Worker at RSPCA
RSPCA
Dumbarton, West Dunbartonshire
2020.04 - 2020.05
- Conducted daily welfare inspections to assess health and well-being of domestic and exotic animals
- Collaborated with team members to maintain high welfare standards for animals
- Supported cleaning, feeding, and general care routines to uphold hygiene and welfare standards
- Maintained detailed records for individual animals to track health and care progress
Food and beverage team member
Merlin Entertainments
Balloch, West Dunbartonshire
2025.04 - Current
- Delivered exceptional customer service in high-pressure environment, enhancing guest satisfaction.
- Handled transactions and maintained cleanliness and hygiene standards to ensure safe dining experience.
- Collaborated with team members to streamline daily operations, improving service efficiency.
- Engage effectively with visitors from various backgrounds.
Senior sandwich artist
Subway
Dumbarton, West Dunbartonshire
2023.08 - 2025.04
- Supervised team members to ensure effective daily operations
- Prepared performance and productivity reports for management to inform decision-making
- Maintained high standards of organisation and hygiene to create a positive customer experience
- Addressed customer concerns with professionalism and care
Education
BSc (Hons) Applied Bioscience and Zoology - Applied Bioscience and Zoology
University of the West of Scotland, Lanarkshire
South Lanarkshire 2023.09 -
Skills
Ecological & Professional Skills
- Environmental monitoring and water quality testing
- Field sampling techniques (kick sampling, sediment & water collection)
- Species identification using taxonomic keys
- Environmental impact assessment
- Data recording and interpretation
- Scientific report writing
- Team collaboration and communication
- Time management and reliability
- Comfortable working outdoors and in varied environments
Professional Memberships
Student Member, Royal Society of Biology
Timeline
Aquarist Placement
Merlin Entertainments
2025.11 - Current
Macroinvertebrate and Water Quality Field Survey
University of the West of Scotland
2025.10 - 2025.10
Food and beverage team member
Merlin Entertainments
2025.04 - Current
BSc (Hons) Applied Bioscience and Zoology - Applied Bioscience and Zoology
University of the West of Scotland, Lanarkshire
2023.09 -
Senior sandwich artist
Subway
2023.08 - 2025.04
Volunteer Worker at RSPCA
RSPCA
2020.04 - 2020.05