Darling Grace Otopah
Palmerston North,New Zealand
Summary
Results-driven Environmental Scientist with international expertise in ecological monitoring and environmental data analysis across Ghana, Kenya, and the Netherlands. Proficient in coastal and freshwater fieldwork, statistical analysis, and community-based monitoring. Demonstrates strong communication skills by effectively presenting scientific findings to diverse audiences and supporting evidence-based environmental management.
Overview
6
6
years of professional experience
Work History
Research Intern
Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute (KMFRI)
01.2022 - 11.2022
- Enhanced freshwater health assessments by conducting surveys at 12 Lake Victoria sites.
- Informed management decisions by delivering monthly fishery bulletins and research briefs.
- Incorporated community perspectives by conducting 50 stakeholder interviews for planning.
- Increased local awareness of sustainable practices through wetland conservation workshops.
Researcher
Wageningen University & Research (WUR)
01.2021 - 11.2022
- Assessed ecosystem health by modeling species–environment relationships using CCA and RDA.
- Evaluated duckweed and Daphnia for effective bioremediation in mesocosm experiments.
- Contributed to risk assessments of freshwater contaminants using ecological models.
- Applied EwE modeling to evaluate environmental impacts on marine ecosystems' efficiency.
Research Assistant
Iroko Consult
08.2019 - 09.2020
- Achieved 60% community adoption of sustainable fishing practices and buffer zones.
- Enhanced food safety by introducing eco-friendly fish smoking technologies.
- Reduced PAH exposure through advanced fish smoking methods.
- Conducted environmental assessments by collecting water and soil samples in rural areas.
PC Operator
Primary Connect, PNRDC
07.2025 - Current
- Strengthened understanding of NZ community values through local work exposure.
- Achieved 100% performance targets within four months by demonstrating strong work ethic.
- Operated digital systems and handheld technologies to enhance operational efficiency.
- Maintained attention to detail and safety awareness in high-demand environments.
- Consistently met operational standards, demonstrating reliability and commitment to targets.
Import–Export Sales Executive
Global Afro Foods BV
03.2023 - 09.2023
- Negotiated sales deals, increasing monthly revenue by 15%.
- Oversaw logistics for 50+ shipments across Europe, ensuring compliance and timely delivery.
- Developed invoicing and budgeting reports, strengthening data management skills.
Education
MSc - Aquaculture & Marine Resource Management
Wageningen University & Research
Netherlands01.2022
BSc - Natural Resources Management (Major: Fisheries & Watershed Management)
KNUST
Ghana01.2018
Skills
- Coastal & freshwater ecological monitoring
- Strong foundation in GIS & spatial analysis
- Environmental data analysis & management (Excel, R, Canoco)
- Community engagement & stakeholder consultation
- Report writing & science communication
- Health, safety & biosecurity compliance
- Active listening
Timeline
PC Operator
Primary Connect, PNRDC
07.2025 - Current
Import–Export Sales Executive
Global Afro Foods BV
03.2023 - 09.2023
Research Intern
Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute (KMFRI)
01.2022 - 11.2022
Researcher
Wageningen University & Research (WUR)
01.2021 - 11.2022
Research Assistant
Iroko Consult
08.2019 - 09.2020
BSc - Natural Resources Management (Major: Fisheries & Watershed Management)
KNUST
MSc - Aquaculture & Marine Resource Management
Wageningen University & Research