Summary
Work History
Education
Skills
Relevant Projects and Fieldwork
References
Timeline
Generic

Rishi Navaneethan

Hillsborough,New Zealand

Summary

Dynamic and results-oriented marine science graduate with a proven track record of innovation in research and fieldwork, focusing on sustainable solutions for New Zealand’s marine ecosystems. Skilled in data analysis and modelling using RStudio and MATLAB, with a deep understanding of climate change impacts, conservation challenges, and ecosystem dynamics. Exceptional leadership and communication abilities, complemented by hands-on experience in predator control, iwi collaboration, and aquatic ecosystem management. Dedicated to supporting NIWA’s mission of advancing environmental science for sustainable resource management.

Work History

Sales Assistant

Globite
Auckland Airport
02.2023 - 11.2024
  • Managed inventory and equipment logistics, showcasing strong organisational skills essential for fieldwork preparations
  • Ensured compliance with company policies and procedures at all times.
  • Delivered exceptional customer service, balancing efficiency with reliability to enhance operational success
  • Managed store operations alone with complete responsibility.

Checkout Operator

New World
02.2022 - 12.2022
  • Provided efficient service and resolved customer inquiries, developing interpersonal and problem-solving skills crucial for teamwork
  • Supported daily operations, ensuring smooth and productive workflows

Customer Service Representative

The Warehouse
11.2020 - 02.2022
  • Handled diverse customer needs and maintained stock organisation, highlighting adaptability and commitment to excellence
  • Enhanced collaborative skills by working in dynamic team environments

Research Assistant

University of Auckland
01.2020 - 09.2020
  • Designed experimental protocols and supported innovative research in ophthalmology, ensuring accuracy and reliability in data collection
  • Refined methodologies and contributed to data analysis, demonstrating adaptability to diverse research challenges

Education

Bachelor of Science (BSc) - Marine Science and Ecology (Double Major)

University of Otago
Dunedin
12.2024

Skills

Effective Communication and Leadership: Demonstrated ability to communicate clearly and persuasively through debating competitions, customer service experience, and leadership as a prefect, guiding and inspiring others in diverse settings

Proficiency in Data Analysis and Modelling: Over three years of experience using tools like RStudio, MATLAB, and Excel to analyse, model, and interpret ecological and oceanographic datasets, delivering actionable insights for research and management

Advanced Fieldwork Proficiency: Skilled in designing, executing, and troubleshooting complex field studies in diverse environments, including freediving and partial PADI certification training, ensuring accurate and reliable data collection

Independent Research Excellence: Successfully designed and conducted innovative research projects, showcasing critical thinking, self-motivation, and problem-solving skills

Deep Understanding of Marine Issues: Extensive knowledge of global and national marine challenges, including climate change impacts on marine vertebrates, invertebrates, and ecosystems, with a focus on sustainable solutions

Commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi: Actively integrates Te Tiriti principles into research and conservation efforts, fostering strong partnerships with Māori communities and incorporating mātauranga Māori

Comprehensive Health and Safety Knowledge: Experienced in implementing best practices for health and safety in both fieldwork and laboratory settings, ensuring team well-being and operational efficiency

Collaborative Restoration Leadership: Proven ability to collaborate with iwi and tangata whenua to develop and implement culturally informed ecological restoration projects

Exceptional Physical and Adaptive Capability: A former New Zealand Lacrosse representative, demonstrating resilience, discipline, and the physical stamina needed for demanding fieldwork, combined with freediving and scuba skills

Relevant Projects and Fieldwork

Estuary Modelling and Ocean Current Systems: Applied MATLAB and RStudio to model estuary dynamics and ocean currents, integrating ecological and oceanographic principles with computational analysis to support environmental management and research.

Field Study in the Catlins Forest: Conducted a seven-week field study in the remote Catlins Forest as part of a duo, showcasing teamwork, adaptability, and advanced fieldwork skills in challenging and isolated conditions.

Pāua Translocation Study in Karitāne: Collaborated with local iwi to restore pāua populations, successfully integrating mātauranga Māori with contemporary conservation practices, and fostering culturally respectful ecological management.

Daphnia Clearance Rate Study: Conducted a study on the clearance rates of Daphnia spp. and their effects on water quality in Tomahawk Lagoon, contributing to a deeper understanding of nutrient cycling and ecosystem health in freshwater systems.

Tomahawk Lagoon Sampling: Performed extensive water quality assessments and ecosystem health evaluations, aiding in long-term aquatic management strategies and providing actionable insights for conservation initiatives.

Brown Trout Population Study in Dunedin: Sampled brown trout populations and investigated the effects of migration barriers on population connectivity. Utilised radioisotope analysis to differentiate between source and sink populations, enhancing understanding of freshwater ecosystem dynamics and informing management decisions.

Pest Management Plans: Developed and implemented comprehensive strategies for stoat control in Otago and the West Coast, incorporating trap grid design, predator monitoring, and community collaboration to improve conservation outcomes.

Predator Monitoring Insights: Studied the application of trail cameras for predator monitoring, including optimising setup, identifying predator presence, and evaluating their efficacy for long-term conservation goals.

Orokonui Ecosanctuary Training: Acquired practical conservation skills through training in predator control methods at Orokonui Ecosanctuary, including trap installation, maintenance, and monitoring techniques.

Radioisotope Use in Ecological Studies: Applied radioisotope techniques to trace energy flow and population dynamics within freshwater systems, providing key insights into ecological connectivity and resilience.

Aquatic Ecosystem Management Expertise: Combined advanced field sampling techniques and data analysis to address issues such as invasive species, water quality decline, and habitat fragmentation, demonstrating a multidisciplinary approach to sustainable management.

References

Available upon request.

Timeline

Sales Assistant

Globite
02.2023 - 11.2024

Checkout Operator

New World
02.2022 - 12.2022

Customer Service Representative

The Warehouse
11.2020 - 02.2022

Research Assistant

University of Auckland
01.2020 - 09.2020

Bachelor of Science (BSc) - Marine Science and Ecology (Double Major)

University of Otago
Rishi Navaneethan