Caroline Casey
Santa Cruz,CA
Summary
Dynamic professional with over 10 years of experience at the intersection of marine science, education, and conservation. Strong background in designing and implementing science-based educational programs, advancing public awareness of marine conservation, and leading interdisciplinary teams. Proven ability to bridge the gap between research and public outreach, ensuring that complex conservation issues are communicated effectively to diverse stakeholders.
Overview
16
16
years of professional experience
Work History
Assistant Research Scientist/Adjunct Professor
University of California Santa Cruz
11.2019 - Current
- Conducted extensive observational and experimental studies on marine mammal species, emphasizing understanding interspecies interactions and human-induced impacts.
- Collaborated with marine conservation organizations, government agencies, and research institutions to design and implement studies to mitigate human-wildlife conflict and promote conservation.
- Successfully secured research grants and funding for scientific studies through detailed proposals, aligning research objectives with environmental protection goals and scientific community interests.
- Mentored 20 + junior researchers, fostering a collaborative atmosphere.
- Proficient in statistical tools and software (e.g., R, MATLAB) for analyzing data, preparing comprehensive research reports, and presenting data-driven insights to stakeholders and funding bodies.
Lecturer
University of California Santa Cruz
11.2018 - Current
- Designed and taught undergraduate courses in Sensory Biology, Animal Behavior, and Conservation Biology, focusing on fostering critical thinking, scientific inquiry, and hands-on learning.
- Committed to student success, providing personalized mentorship and academic guidance for classes of up to 120 individuals, particularly for students pursuing ecology and wildlife conservation careers.
- Adapted quickly to shifting educational landscapes during remote learning periods, leveraging digital tools to engage students via virtual platforms while maintaining high academic rigor within the department.
- Led the assessment and continuous improvement of course content and teaching methods based on student feedback and performance data.
Director of Education
California Ocean Alliance
06.2017 - Current
- Designed, implemented, and managed various educational programs for diverse audiences, including K-12 students, educators, community groups, and the general public.
- Partnered with external stakeholders, including local businesses and non-profit organizations, to develop programs that provide students with real-world science-based learning opportunities.
- Planned successful fundraising events, enhancing community engagement in education programs and raising awareness about our educational offerings.
- Created engaging, hands-on curricula that blend marine science, natural history, and conservation, ensuring materials were accessible, interactive, and scientifically accurate for all age groups.
- Represented the organization at conferences, public forums, and educational events, advocating for marine conservation education.
Research Scientist
Southall Environmental Associates
06.2009 - Current
- Conducted comprehensive research on the impact of human-generated disturbance on marine animals.
- Collected and analyzed field data using non-invasive techniques to assess marine mammal distribution, behavior, and health status.
- Collaborated with governmental agencies, non-profit organizations, and academic institutions on multi-disciplinary research projects, sharing findings to inform policy decisions and conservation planning.
- Presented research findings at over two-dozen international conferences, increasing visibility and recognition within the field.
- Managed multiple research projects simultaneously, coordinating timelines, resources, and deliverables.
Laboratory Manager and Head Marine Mammal Trainer
University of California Santa Cruz
02.2010 - 08.2012
- Successfully led and managed a collaborative team of researchers, overseeing daily operations, animal training schedules, and animal welfare in accordance with ethical standards and best practices.
- Interviewed, hired, and trained lab members to conduct collaborative research with captive marine mammals.
- Implemented positive reinforcement-based training programs for various marine mammal species, including dolphins, sea lions, seals, and sea otters, to conduct rigorous scientific research.
- Work alongside veterinary and research teams to assess animal health, develop enrichment strategies, and contribute to ongoing studies on animal cognition, behavior, and conservation.
Education
Ph.D. - Ecology And Evolutionary Biology
University of California Santa Cruz
California12-2018
Master of Science - Ecology And Evolutionary Biology
University of California Santa Cruz
California06-2014
Bachelor of Arts - Environmental Studies
University of California Santa Cruz
California06-2008
Skills
- Strong Communication Skills
- Program management and organization
- Team Leadership and Mentoring
- Project Organization
- Educational Curriculum development
- Field and Laboratory Research Expertise
- Scientific Report Writing
- Grant Writing
- Event coordination
- Inclusivity Awareness
Languages
English
Native or Bilingual
French
Limited Working
Timeline
Assistant Research Scientist/Adjunct Professor
University of California Santa Cruz
11.2019 - Current
Lecturer
University of California Santa Cruz
11.2018 - Current
Director of Education
California Ocean Alliance
06.2017 - Current
Laboratory Manager and Head Marine Mammal Trainer
University of California Santa Cruz
02.2010 - 08.2012
Research Scientist
Southall Environmental Associates
06.2009 - Current
Ph.D. - Ecology And Evolutionary Biology
University of California Santa Cruz
Master of Science - Ecology And Evolutionary Biology
University of California Santa Cruz
Bachelor of Arts - Environmental Studies
University of California Santa Cruz
Similar Profiles
Rohan AvuthuRohan Avuthu
Economics/Analytics Research at University of California Santa CruzEconomics/Analytics Research at University of California Santa Cruz
Kat BirtellKat Birtell
Student Assistant at University Of California, Santa CruzStudent Assistant at University Of California, Santa Cruz
Nicole ThomasNicole Thomas
Assist. Dir. of User Services & Resource Sharing at University Of California, Santa CruzAssist. Dir. of User Services & Resource Sharing at University Of California, Santa Cruz