Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Websites
Cover Letter
Publications
Training
Timeline
Generic

SAHAR FIROOZKOOHI

Auckland

Summary

Experienced and dedicated ecologist with a robust background in fieldwork, wildlife science, and environmental assessment in New Zealand. Skilled in designing environments that foster curiosity and personal development, I excel at collaborating with teams to create effective work plans and track their progress through regular reviews. My proficiency in using R for data analysis, expertise in GIS applications, and hands-on experience with field surveying equipment and animal handling ensure comprehensive and accurate environmental assessments.

With a strong team-focused approach, I am organised, proactive, and punctual, adept at conducting site studies, gathering information, recording technical details, and producing detailed reports for conservation strategies. My interpersonal, problem-solving, and analytical skills enable me to provide valuable advice and expertise to client organizations, helping them improve performance and achieve sustainability goals. Focused on introducing efficient systems and processes, I am committed to contributing to ecological research and conservation efforts.

Overview

8
8
years of professional experience

Work History

PROFESSIONAL/CONSULTANT ECOLOGIST

AECOM New Zealand Ltd.
08.2022 - Current

Expertise in identifying birds by their calls, habitat features, and behaviours.

Planning and conducting comprehensive bird surveys.

Conducting Terrestrial and freshwater habitat survey, including RHA, SEV, wetland assessment

Performing ecological impact assessments (EcIA), Preparing detailed ecological assessment reports for regional consents

Analysing bat behaviour and recording calls using automated bat monitors (ABMs).

Conducting fieldwork, site visits, and data collection for desktop surveys related to birds, bats, freshwater fish, and lizards.

Handling and sampling various species, including fish, lizards, birds, and invertebrates.

Proficient in ArcGIS for spatial analysis, data modelling, and mapping.

Proficient in data analysis using R.

Authoring and publishing scientific papers and presentations.

  • Collaborated with teams to define, strategise, and implement ecological/fauna management plan.

RESEARCH ASSISTANT

Bioprotection Aotearoa
06.2020 - 08.2022
  • Analysed genomic and microbiological experimental data and interpret results to draft reports of findings
  • Performed diverse functions using computer-interfaced equipment, PCR, RNA, and DNA extraction from fungi samples
  • Conducted microbiological, and entomological analyses on regular basis
  • Gathered, arranged, and corrected research data to create representative graphs and charts highlighting results for presentations.

VOLUNTEER SANCTUARY RANGER

Zealandia
09.2019 - 09.2020
  • Prepared a variety of different written communications, reports and documents to ensure smooth operations
  • Worked to maintain footprint tracking traps, monitoring and reporting devices and fences.
  • Communicated through multi-frequency radio and obtained and transmitted information in field to dispatch other staff.

ENVIRONMENTAL OFFICER

Part-Sazan Foraging Co.
07.2016 - 11.2018
  • Conducted environmental impact assessments, measured, monitored, and controlled air pollution from commercial and industrial sources.
  • Investigated cases of serious environmental contamination and infectious diseases to determine sources and implement remediation strategies.
  • Ensured compliance with applicable environmental, health, and safety laws and regulations, reporting all unsafe practices and incidents.
  • Developed and enforced environmental policies and procedures to maintain a safe and compliant workplace.
  • Provided recommendations for sustainable practices and technologies to reduce environmental impact and improve resource efficiency.
  • Conducted fieldwork to collect environmental samples, including air, water, soil, and biological specimens for analysis.
  • Analyzed environmental data to identify trends, assess risks, and develop mitigation strategies.
  • Prepared detailed reports on environmental assessments, monitoring results, and compliance audits.
  • Maintained accurate and up-to-date records of environmental inspections, incidents, and remediation efforts.
  • Engaged with community members, stakeholders, and regulatory agencies to communicate environmental issues and solutions.
  • Organised and participated in public awareness campaigns and educational programs on environmental protection and sustainability.
  • Managed environmental projects from planning to implementation, ensuring timely completion and adherence to budget constraints.
  • Coordinated with cross-functional teams, including engineers, and regulatory officials, to achieve project objectives.

Education

Ph.D. - Avian Evolutionary Ecology

Lincoln University
Lincoln, New Zealand
06.2022

Master of Science - Environmental Science

University of Tehran
Tehran, Iran
01.2015

Bachelor of Science - Environmental Science

Gorgan University of Agriculture And Natural Resources
Gorgan, Iran
01.2012

Skills

  • Data collection and organisation in wild and captive species
  • Experienced in NZ fauna and flora
  • Experience in environmental assessment methods
  • Strong technical Writing
  • Proficient in R and GIS
  • Environmental and ecological field experience
  • Analytical Thinking
  • Strategic Planning
  • Integrity and Honesty
  • Subject Matter Expert
  • Project Implementation
  • Safety Regulations
  • Project Analysis
  • Analysis & Evaluation
  • Client Relationships
  • Cultural Awareness
  • Data Analytics
  • Attention to Detail
  • Forecasting and Reporting
  • Problem-Solving
  • Process Improvement

Cover Letter

Dear Hiring Manager, I am thrilled to express my enthusiastic interest in joining your esteemed team as an Ecologist, leveraging my decade-long academic and professional background in biodiversity and ecology. With a keen focus on providing technical expertise to clients and contributing to innovative solutions, I am eager to bring my skills to your organization and make a meaningful impact. Currently serving as a professional ecologist at AECOM in Auckland, I have amassed extensive experience in planning, conducting, and executing environmental and ecological surveys, including impact assessments. My role involves overseeing fieldwork, data collection, and the production of detailed reports while offering invaluable support and guidance to clients. Notably, I specialize in avian ecology, showcasing proficiency in bird nest activity analysis, the formulation of bird survey and management plans, and expert lizard identification, including salvage acts during site visits. Furthermore, I possess expertise in analysing and reporting on terrestrial and freshwater ecosystems, ensuring alignment with the Resource Management Act. I am adept at utilising tools such as SEV and wetland delineation to contribute to comprehensive assessments of environmental conditions. My skill set extends beyond traditional ecological fieldwork, encompassing advanced proficiency in ArcGIS for spatial analysis and modelling, as well as statistical analysis using R, facilitating the interpretation of environmental and behavioural data from diverse projects. Throughout my tenure at AECOM, I have consistently demonstrated autonomy in conducting data collection, executing site visits, and managing device operations. Additionally, I have actively participated in water sampling, eDNA analysis, and in-depth data analysis, underscoring my ability to interpret results and effectively communicate findings. My academic journey includes earning a Ph.D. from Lincoln University, during which I served as a teaching assistant for esteemed professors in plant ecology and microbiology. This experience allowed me to hone my skills in bird watching, ecological behaviour identification, and extensive data collection. I am well-versed in the identification and analysis of fauna and flora, as well as the handling and interpretation of large ecological datasets. Beyond my ecological expertise, I have had the privilege of applying my skills in diverse cultural and geographical contexts, having worked as an ecologist in both New Zealand and Iran. This cross-cultural experience has enriched my understanding of ecological dynamics and enhanced my ability to adapt to different environments. I am particularly excited about the prospect of relocating to Australia and contributing my skills and knowledge gained from working in various ecological settings. My diverse background, coupled with my commitment to ecological research, aligns seamlessly with your institution's prominence in eco-research. As a critical thinker, team player, and problem-solver, I am confident that my skills will significantly contribute to the continued success of your organization. With eight years of experience as a self-motivated and independent researcher, I believe my proficiency in behavioural variation research, grant proposal writing, and tutoring could further enhance your laboratory. Enclosed is my CV, and I am eager to discuss in more detail how my skills and qualifications align with your team's needs. I am available at your earliest convenience and look forward to the opportunity for a discussion. Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the possibility of contributing to your team and bringing my expertise to Australia. Sincerely, Sahar Firoozkoohi saharfiroozkoohi@gmail.com

Publications

Morphological variation of blackbird and song thrush may indicate their adaptive directions of success invasion, Sahar Firoozkoohi, Adrian Paterson, Jon Sullivan, New Zealand Journal of Ecology, Under review, 2023

Training

  • Variation in exploratory behaviour of territorial passerines toward a novel object in different anthropogenic habitats, Sahar Firoozkoohi, Adrian Paterson, Jon Sullivan, Ethology, 2023
  • Different levels of the anthropogenic landscape may predict escape decision and risk-taking behaviour of two Turdidea species in New Zealand, Sahar Firoozkoohi, Adrian Paterson, Jon Sullivan, Under preparation, 2024
  • Inverse Evaluation of Cultural Landscapes Using Landscape Metrics, Sahar Firoozkoohi, Bahman Jabbarian Amiri, Majid Makhdoum, Mahnaz Ashrafi, Landscape Research, 2021
  • Morphological variation of blackbird and song thrush may indicate their adaptive directions of success invasion, Sahar Firoozkoohi, Adrian Paterson, Jon Sullivan, New Zealand Bird Conference, Under review, 2022
  • Hide or seek? How Birds deal with Novel Objects, Sahar Firoozkoohi, Adrian Paterson, Jon Sullivan, 3rd International Conference on Ecology, Evolution and Conservation Biology, Kerikeri, New Zealand, 2021
  • Stay or Leave: Avian Responses to Urbanisation, Sahar Firoozkoohi, Adrian M. Paterson, Jon Sullivan, 2nd International Conference on Ecology, Evolution and Conservation Biology, Christchurch, New Zealand, 2019
  • Studying Troglodytic human settlements in Landscape Ecology point of view, Case Study: Meymand, Sahar Firoozkoohi, Bahman Jabbarian Amiri, Majid Makhdoum, Mahnaz Ashrafi, 2nd International Troglodytic Architecture Conference, Tehran, Iran, 2016

Timeline

PROFESSIONAL/CONSULTANT ECOLOGIST

AECOM New Zealand Ltd.
08.2022 - Current

RESEARCH ASSISTANT

Bioprotection Aotearoa
06.2020 - 08.2022

VOLUNTEER SANCTUARY RANGER

Zealandia
09.2019 - 09.2020

ENVIRONMENTAL OFFICER

Part-Sazan Foraging Co.
07.2016 - 11.2018

Ph.D. - Avian Evolutionary Ecology

Lincoln University

Master of Science - Environmental Science

University of Tehran

Bachelor of Science - Environmental Science

Gorgan University of Agriculture And Natural Resources
SAHAR FIROOZKOOHI