Annette Contreras
Collections Aide
Maricopa,AZ
Summary
Dynamic Collections Aide at the National Ecological Observatory Network, adept at curating delicate invertebrate specimens and maintaining comprehensive databases. Proven ability to communicate effectively with team members while ensuring meticulous archival upkeep and environmental monitoring. Successfully managed the accession of thousands of research samples, enhancing the integrity of biological collections.
Overview
1
1
year of professional experience
2
2
Certifications
Work History
Collections Aide
National Ecological Observatory Network
06.2025 - Current
- Participating in data collection for annual collection reports
- Participating in collections-related conferences and trainings
- Receival and accession of 30,000–38,000 invertebrate research samples annually, including pinned insects, slides, and ethanol-preserved bulk samples.
- Chemical safety training, lab maintenance, equipment, and supply inventory control.
- Integrating incoming specimens into the NEON Biorepository’s physical collections and digital data portals
- Handling and curating delicate invertebrate specimens according to museum archival standards
- Check in and inventory incoming samples from across the country; Packing/unpacking, shipping, and condition reporting
- Capturing specimen images for documentation and records
- Operating under an active state-issued salvage permit authorizing the lawful recovery and accession of biological specimens
- Monitor stored specimens and perform necessary archival upkeep, including Environmental monitoring of storage facilities and laboratories, and pest management
Education
Bachelor of Science - Conservation Biology And Ecology
Arizona State University
Tempe, AZ12-2026
Associate of Science - Biology
Maricopa Community Colleges, Chandler-Gilbert Community College
Chandler, AZ 05.2001 -
Veterinary Assistant Certification - Veterinary Science
East Valley Institute of Technology
Mesa, AZ 05.2001 -
Skills
- Google Applications
- Laboratory instrumentation
- Programming: RStudio
- Programming: Jupyter Script
- Building and Training AI
- Programming: Pytorch
- GIS experience
- Communicate proactively and effectively with team members
- Tabling events
- Presenting and introducing information to new audiences
Certification
ArcGIS Suitability Modeling Certification
Timeline
Collections Aide
National Ecological Observatory Network
06.2025 - Current
Associate of Science - Biology
Maricopa Community Colleges, Chandler-Gilbert Community College
05.2001 -
Veterinary Assistant Certification - Veterinary Science
East Valley Institute of Technology
05.2001 -
Bachelor of Science - Conservation Biology And Ecology
Arizona State University