Kalyx Aikin
Charleston
Summary
Interdisciplinary researcher concentrating on marine and environmental sciences with experience in ecological data analysis, behavioral documentation, and animal handling. Focused on marine ecology, behavior, and conservation, utilizing biological datasets to explore ecological processes and enhance wildlife management strategies. Committed to advancing skills through graduate studies and collaborative research opportunities.
Overview
1
1
year of professional experience
Work History
Independent Undergraduate Researcher
UCARE Grant Recipient
05.2026 - Current
- Lead an independent undergraduate research project analyzing a long-term dataset of juvenile lemon sharks from Bimini, Bahamas.
- Conduct research under the guidance of Dr. René Martin, while independently performing data analysis and project implementation.
- Investigate growth patterns and age estimation using capture histories, fork length measurements, and umbilical scar condition.
- Clean, organize, and validate longitudinal biological data to ensure accuracy and consistency across multiple capture events.
- Funded through the Undergraduate Creative Activities and Research Experiences (UCARE) grant.
Animal Care Assistant
Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium
Omaha
04.2025 - 05.2026
- Coordinated handling, transportation, and restraint of animals during operations, prioritizing animal safety and welfare.
- Provided daily husbandry for terrestrial and aquatic species, including diet preparation, enclosure sanitation, and enrichment implementation.
- Documented animal behavior and reported health or welfare concerns to supervisors, ensuring timely interventions.
- Maintained strict safety standards for animals and guests at all times.
- Delivered educational presentations, simplifying complex biological concepts to enhance understanding among diverse audiences.
Education
Post-Baccalaureate Undergraduate Coursework in Fisheries & Wildlife -
University of Nebraska, Lincoln
Lincoln, NEBachelor of Arts - Communication
University of Arkansas
Fayetteville, AR12-2025
Skills
- Communication, planning, and organization
- Data analysis
- Research methodology
- Quantitative research
- Educational presentation
- Animal husbandry
- Interdisciplinary knowledge
- Software: Google Workspace, Microsoft Office Suite, R, ArcGIS, and GPS
Timeline
Independent Undergraduate Researcher
UCARE Grant Recipient
05.2026 - Current
Animal Care Assistant
Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium
04.2025 - 05.2026
Post-Baccalaureate Undergraduate Coursework in Fisheries & Wildlife -
University of Nebraska, Lincoln
Bachelor of Arts - Communication
University of Arkansas