Aquaculture Technician
Heather's job title is Scientific Aquaculture Technician at the Scottish Association for Marine Science (SAMS)
We conduct research into how the marine environment works, why it is changing and how we could use and treat it better. I work in the main aquarium, where we have many experiments taking place at once. My current focus is sea urchins, sea cucumbers, oysters and ragworms, but this changes frequently.
I assist the Aquarium Manager. He does the planning of projects and coordinates with the researchers, and I am the hands-on person getting all the rooms set up, building tanks and checking water and airflow.
Hear more about Heather's role by watching the video below...
I studied biology, geography, chemistry and history at A-level before doing a degree in Zoology. I moved to Scotland six months ago for a different role but wanted to try something new. When looking for another role, people recommended I have a look at the work that SAMS do, and that is where I saw my current job advertised. Although I never imagined myself being a technician, I thought I would go for it, and it’s the best thing I have ever done. It is the coolest job!
It is so varied and diverse. I have a routine, but no two days are the same. I am learning so much because I am working with many different researchers. There is constantly new research beginning, so I meet new people all the time. It is so interesting, and you feel that you will never stop learning.
I would consider other technician or research jobs. This job has given me many new skills, and I would like to see where those new skills could take me. I could, for example, look at working in an oyster hatchery. I am open to possibilities.
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