Dylan Gronley
Sebastian,FL
Summary
Marine science and aquaculture professional with experience operating marine culture systems, supporting applied research, and managing laboratory operations within academic and industrial environments. Current work at FAU Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute focuses on queen conch (Aliger gigas) and milk conch (Macrostrombus costatus) aquaculture, including recirculating and flow-through seawater systems, aquatic animal husbandry, water quality monitoring, technical protocol development, and multidisciplinary research support. Experienced in aquaculture operations, research data management, facility logistics, system troubleshooting, and technical training. Interested in sustainable aquaculture, marine conservation, and applied research that combines scientific knowledge with hands-on technical problem-solving. Seeking opportunities in the United Kingdom to contribute to marine science, aquaculture, and conservation-focused research.
Overview
1
1
Certification
7
7
years of professional experience
Work History
Aquaculture Research Technician
Queen Conch Lab | FAU Harbor Branch Oceanographic
Fort Pierce, FL, USA
09.2025 - Current
- Supported daily laboratory operations across marine aquaculture research systems, including animal husbandry, system maintenance, and experimental support.
- Maintained aquaculture units through cleaning, equipment checks, biological monitoring, and routine system upkeep.
- Assisted with biological sample handling, research activities, and structured data collection to support ongoing projects.
- Supported preparation and organization of laboratory equipment, materials, and facilities for research operations.
Laboratory Assistant
Queen Conch Lab | FAU Harbor Branch Oceanographic
Fort Pierce, FL, USA
09.2024 - 09.2025
- Supported daily laboratory operations across aquaculture research systems.
- Ensured proper functioning of equipment for ongoing research activities., supported biological husbandry, and handled samples.
- Collected structured data and assisted research support activities.
- Cleaned aquaculture units and removed waste and dirt, enabling healthy growth of aquatic wildlife.
Laboratory Technician - R&D (Polymer Chemistry)
Axalta Coating Systems
Mt. Clemens, MI, USA
08.2022 - 12.2023
- Contributed to polymer synthesis and coating formulation in regulated manufacturing environment, ensuring compliance with industry standards.
- Conducted polymer synthesis and operated reactor systems (up to 12L scale) supporting controlled production workflows
- Performed analytical testing using FTIR, pH, conductivity, and particle size analysis to assess product quality and consistency
- Assisted with safety audits, process hazard analyses (PHA), and regulatory compliance documentation to maintain operational safety and adherence to regulations.
- Managed hazardous raw materials (amines, epoxy resins, solvents, acids) under strict SOP-controlled procedures, prioritising safety and quality assurance.
Production Operator - Chemical Manufacturing
Axalta Coating Systems
Mt. Clemens, MI, USA
10.2021 - 08.2022
- Operated controlled chemical production systems in regulated manufacturing environment, ensuring quality of solvent-borne coatings for industrial applications.
- Operated metering systems, pumps, and mixing equipment for batch production processes
- Followed SOPs to ensure process consistency, safety, and compliance with production standards
- Monitored equipment and production parameters during manufacturing cycles involving hazardous materials
Heating & Air Conditioning Technician
Custom Air Systems, Inc.
Fellsmere, FL, USA
08.2020 - 10.2021
- Diagnosed mechanical and electrical faults for heating, refrigeration, and air conditioning systems.
- Maintained excellent customer satisfaction by providing efficient, helpful and friendly service.
- Installed, maintained, and repaired residential air conditioning systems to optimise performance.
- Ensured air conditioning systems stayed in excellent, safe and efficient working order through regular maintenance and inspections.
Archaeological Field Technician
Indian River State College
Fort Pierce, FL, USA
06.2019 - 08.2019
- Conducted field-based archaeological research for excavation and survey operations, ensuring accurate data collection and site integrity.
- Supported excavation, artifact recording, and site documentation
- Assisted with shovel test probing and field data collection, contributing to effective site assessment and documentation.
- Conducted flotation analysis to recover archaeological materials from soil samples. and structured archaeological sampling
Education
Associate in Arts - General
Indian River State College
Ft. Pierce, FL01-2020
BACE Credential - Industrial Biotechnology
Sebastian River High School
Sebastian, FL01-2017
Bachelor of Science - Biology (In Progress)
Indian River State College
Ft. Pierce, FL01-2029
Skills
- Recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) and flow-through seawater systems
- Marine invertebrate husbandry and aquatic animal care
- Queen conch and milk conch culture systems
- Water quality monitoring (pH, salinity, ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, dissolved oxygen)
- Aquaculture system maintenance, plumbing, filtration, and troubleshooting
- Hazardous materials handling
- Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) development and technical documentation
- Biological data collection, organization, and research data management
- Field equipment preparation, deployment, and technical support
- Laboratory safety, quality control, and regulated work environments
Certification
- PADI Advanced Open Water Diver Certification
- PADI Nitrox/Enriched Air Certification
- OSHA Forklift/Transporter Certification (expired)
- OSHA PAPR Certification (expired)
- BACE Credential (expired)
Timeline
Aquaculture Research Technician
Queen Conch Lab | FAU Harbor Branch Oceanographic
09.2025 - Current
Laboratory Assistant
Queen Conch Lab | FAU Harbor Branch Oceanographic
09.2024 - 09.2025
Laboratory Technician - R&D (Polymer Chemistry)
Axalta Coating Systems
08.2022 - 12.2023
Production Operator - Chemical Manufacturing
Axalta Coating Systems
10.2021 - 08.2022
Heating & Air Conditioning Technician
Custom Air Systems, Inc.
08.2020 - 10.2021
Archaeological Field Technician
Indian River State College
06.2019 - 08.2019
Associate in Arts - General
Indian River State College
BACE Credential - Industrial Biotechnology
Sebastian River High School
Bachelor of Science - Biology (In Progress)
Indian River State College