Volunteer Resident Researcher at Sherkin Island Marine Station
NationalityIrish
Current locationIreland
Work categoryPharmaceutical and Science
EducationBachelor/Degree
Profile Activity
A highly educated and intellectual graduate qualifying with a 2.1 Hons Degree. By strategically choosing a broad range of subjects I have gained a broad firm knowledge of animal and plant biology, physiology and behaviour (Aquatic, Marine and Terrestrial). Highly experienced with completing diverse research and practical projects throughout University and with work experience, I have gained exceptional practical and theoretical experience. I am competent in team based projects, communicating research results in presentation format to peers, field based projects and statistical analysis and reporting. With a particular interest in animal behaviour from a young age I am eager to take the next steps to my career. I would be interested to hear about any opportunities that may come about in my field of studies.
Adam Essa's Professional Experience
Sherkin Island Marine Station - Volunteer Resident Researcher
• Secured a 6-month resident voluntary position via online application. The Station has employed volunteer researchers and overseen the undertaking of coastal and inland surveys, incorporating the West and Southwest of Ireland, for over 35 years, in so doing, compiling a database which is unique, certainly within Ireland, but also with regard to similar efforts abroad.
• Applied skills and knowledge developed during the course of my BSc Degree to all aspects of my position at Sherkin, which included:
o Collection and analyses of samples (i.e. floral, faunal and water samples).
o Positive identification of marine coastal fauna and flora specimens.
o Carrying out annual transect surveys at approximately 120 designated sites, incorporating Sherkin Island, Roaringwater Bay, Bantry Bay, Dunmanus Bay and many other sites around the West Cork area, as well as the Cork Harbour area.
o Carrying out additional monthly transects, of which there are 7, all located along the Sherkin Island coastline.
o Conducting supplementary surveys around Sherkin Island, including a biological survey of more than 40 local rock pools, a seaweed survey of Kinish Harbour (a portion of which supports continued oyster farming) and a survey of the highly invasive Sargassum muticum (commonly known as ‘Japweed’), both offshore (coastal) and inshore (rock pools).
o Writing up reports relating to surveys undertaken, as well as reports relating to new literature for the Station’s quarterly publication, ‘Sherkin Comment’.
o Collecting and processing data associated with all work carried out.
o Re-checking and editing present and past data, to ensure a standard and quality of data for future use.
• Improved social, communication and team skills through living and working with other volunteers, of both the Rocky Shore and Plankton teams.
Environmental Reseach Institute - Research Assistant
• Awarded a laboratory-based bursary by the supervising lecturer who oversaw my final year research project to continue and develop on the topic of freshwater ecological relationships.
• Applied knowledge and techniques acquired during the course of my project work, such as determining taxonomy, handling, transport and processing of samples, as well as drying and measuring procedures.
• Adhered to laboratory etiquette, building security protocols and associated responsibilities.
• Enhanced interpersonal skills through sharing workspace and interacting with fellow researchers.
• Delivered frequent progress reports, while further developing communication and presentation skills.
• Organisational skills with respect to data collection, storage and presentation, as well as time management, were also addressed.
Adam Essa's Education and Qualifications
Bachelor/Degree - Zoology
University College Cork