Courtney Rainwaters
Russellville
Summary
Dedicated and detail-oriented Biology graduate with extensive hands-on experience in wildlife fieldwork, species identification, and ecological research. Proven track record in animal care, specimen handling, and conducting environmental impact studies. Demonstrated leadership skills in laboratory settings, with a strong background in training peers on protocol execution and safety compliance. Eager to contribute technical expertise in fish and wildlife management to support the conservation efforts of the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources.
Overview
2
2
years of professional experience
Work History
Field Researcher
Western Kentucky University
01.2024 - 05.2025
- Executed field surveys to capture, identify, and safely handle wild amphibians, reptiles, and birds.
- Investigated anthropogenic impacts on wildlife habitats, focusing on leaf litter microhabitats relative to human-made infrastructure.
- Herpetology & Ornithology Studies
Undergraduate Researcher
Western Kentucky University
08.2023 - 05.2025
- Conducted longitudinal behavioral research focusing on spinal cord regeneration in lamprey models over 12-week observational periods.
- Managed daily animal care, monitored behavior, and maintained precise data logs to ensure research integrity.
- Lamprey Lab Research
Research Assistant
Western Kentucky University
08.2023 - 12.2024
- Analyzed human environmental impacts (pollution, deforestation) on aquatic and marine ecosystems.
- Conducted comparative health assessments on fish populations in rural vs. urban waterways, documenting the prevalence of anthropogenic-induced diseases.
- Ichthyology & Marine Biology
Laboratory Peer Mentor
Western Kentucky University
01.2023 - 05.2024
- Selected to lead and train incoming students on laboratory safety, chemical mixing, and animal care protocols.
- Utilized video analysis and advanced software to study, catalog, and present findings on animal behavioral patterns.
- Animal Behavior & Diversity
Education
Bachelor of Science - Biology
Western Kentucky University
Bowling Green, KY05-2025
High School Diploma - undefined
Logan County High School
Russellville, KY05-2022
Skills
- Fieldwork & Research: Wildlife population surveying, environmental impact analysis, habitat assessment, data collection
- Laboratory & Technical: Animal husbandry and care, specimen dissection, skeletal processing (skinning/prep), chemical solution preparation, laboratory safety protocols
- Species Handling: Safe capture and handling of diverse taxonomic groups (ichthyology, herpetology, ornithology)
- Leadership & Software: Peer training and mentorship, Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook), Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Slides)
- Data collection
- Qualitative research
- Cultural sensitivity
- Research design
- Strong work ethic
- Attention to detail
- Data collection, analysis and organization
- Documentation and reporting
Timeline
Field Researcher
Western Kentucky University
01.2024 - 05.2025
Undergraduate Researcher
Western Kentucky University
08.2023 - 05.2025
Research Assistant
Western Kentucky University
08.2023 - 12.2024
Laboratory Peer Mentor
Western Kentucky University
01.2023 - 05.2024
High School Diploma - undefined
Logan County High School
Bachelor of Science - Biology
Western Kentucky University
Awards & Honors
Sally Flowers Moody Scholarship: Recipient of a highly competitive, fully-funded merit scholarship based on academic excellence.