Aquagreen

Rachael Griffin (B.Sc. Marine Biology) is a graduate from the University of British Columbia with a Marine Biology Major.  She specializes in whale research, bioacoustics, and wildlife photography. Her research experience includes monitoring marine mammals in critical habitats, observing vessel effects on killer whale behaviour, investigating whale and dolphin vocalizations, recording sound levels in killer whale habitats. She has contributed to the development of the BeWhaleWise Guidelines and co-authored the paper Killer Whales are Capable of Vocal Learning. She developed an acoustic monitoring project working in partnership with government and educational organizations to identify received sound levels in killer whale habitats. Rachael has over four years experience managing marine stewardship programs, monitoring vessel behaviour around marine mammals, meeting with ecotourism and government agencies to discuss best management practices.

Other experience includes working for ecotourism companies to increase knowledge of marine mammal behaviour, promoting stewardship and educating the public on conserving marine species and their habitats. Rachael has worked for the Vancouver Aquarium as a marine Interpreter and database assistant. While at the University of British Columbia she worked as a research assistant, collecting data from scientific articles, aided with Steller Sea Lion morphological measurements, and organized head office paper work. Rachael has coordinated and trained volunteers in boating safety, recording methods, and monitoring efforts. She is a diligent fast-learning team player with a professional and positive work ethic, being self-motivated, creative, flexible and articulate, skilled at problem solving.

Rachael has proven research skills through establishing experimental design, collecting and analyzing data using various field equipment including hydrophones and photo-identification techniques, writing scientific proposals and papers, and conducting research seminars. Her technical skills include being proficient in Microsoft Office, Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator; and Premiere, Dreamweaver Macromedia, and acoustic software. She is experienced with digital and film photography, darkroom equipment and procedures, using negative and photographic solutions, and scanning images. Rachael is a certified Advanced PADI scuba diver, experienced boat operator (Pleasure Craft Operator’s Certificate), and trained in marine safety through the Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary (Restricted Operator’s Certificate Maritime, Emergency First Aid, Crew Level 1), and Occupational First Aid level II.

(photo by Maria Chantelle Tucker)