Data Entry Water Quality

Sophia LeeMaster

Columbia, SC ***************@*****.*** 312-***-****

Education:

University of South Carolina- Columbia, SC May 2025 Bachelors of Science in Marine Science, magna cum laude GPA: 3.85 Study Abroad: University San Francisco Quito (USFQ) Quito~Galapagos, Ecuador May 2023 Honors & Awards: Dean’s List: 3 semesters; Presidents List: 4 semesters, UREP Award for independent study. GLD: Graduating with Leadership Distinction in Research Experience:

Research:

Conservation Genetics Lab:

Independent Study: Spring 2024

• Investigated declining global firefly biodiversity with a focus on Congaree National Park (CNP), creating a database of firefly diversity through field sampling, light microscopy, taxonomic identification, and DNA barcoding with Dr. Joe Quattro.

• Contributed to firefly conservation by providing a foundational resource for targeted conservation strategies in CNP. Research Volunteer: Fall 2023-Spring 2025

• The laboratory studies population and conservation genetics of threatened aquatic animals, facilitated by Dr. Joe Quattro. Internship & Work:

Mote Coral Restoration Lead Intern: May-August 2024

• Executed aquaculture maintenance, coral husbandry & propagation via micro-fragmentation, conducted water quality assessments, engaged in community education & outreach, and ensured precise data entry for tracking coral culture and maintenance activities for 450 hours.

• Participated in scuba diving based fieldwork by transplanting corals to restoration sites and monitoring the previously out planted corals. Riverbanks Aquarium Intern: August-October 2024

• Fulfilled 120 hours of comprehensive aquarium husbandry, including water quality optimization & maintenance through chemical, physical, and biological filtration systems. Curated and administered tailored diets to sustain animal health and ecosystem balance.

• Engaged and educated guests on conservation initiatives, animal stewardship, while fostering community awareness and advocacy. Volunteer:

Shedd Aquarium Guest Engagement Volunteer: 2019-2021

• Designed impactful educational initiatives to deepen public understanding of ecosystems and conservation principles.

• Delivered compelling presentations to diverse audiences, refining expertise in public speaking, leadership, and adaptability. Presentations & Activities:

Discover USC: Spring 2024

• Showcased expertise in conservation genetics of populations in CNP, while engaging in collaborative discussions with a diverse group of scholars at the annual conference proudly sponsored by the Office of the Vice President for Research at University of South Carolina. SEAS-Students Engaged in Aquatic Sciences: Fall 2021-Spring 2025

• A club for those passionate about environmental conservation initiatives, while fostering community awareness & advocacy. Skills:

• PADI-certified diver: Open Water and Advanced Open Water certifications.

• Lab Techniques & Equipment: DNA Barcoding via PCR testing, Titrations, Various Water Quality Procedures.

• Lab Equipment & Data Analysis: Python, R Studio, Excel & Spectrometer, Hydrometer, pH meter, DO meter, Salinity Refractometer. Relevant Coursework:

CSCE 206 BIOL 301 MSCI 311 MSCI 313 MSCI 314 MSCI 375 MSCI 390 MSCI 399 Scientific Application

Programming

Ecology &

Evolution

Biology of Marine

Organisms

Chemistry

of the Sea

Physical

Oceanography

The Deep Sea Policy in Marine

Science

Independent Study:

Firefly Genetics

MSCI 460 SPTE 490 MSCI 495 STAT 515 GEOG 516 MSCI 552 ANTH 591 Field & Lab

Investigations

Sustainability &

Eco-Tourism

Marine Science Internship:

Riverbanks Aquarium

Scientific Statistical

Methods

Coastal Zone

Management

Population

Genetics

Environmental

Archeology

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