Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
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Hayden Huff

La Mesa,CA

Summary

Passionate biology educator with experience as an adjunct instructor for Marine Biology and a teaching assistant for Organismal Biology at Point Loma Nazarene University. Skilled in engaging students through experiential and inquiry-based learning, with a commitment to making science accessible and exciting. Combines academic training with real-world ecological and marine experience to foster curiosity, critical thinking, and student success.

Overview

3
3
years of professional experience

Work History

Adjunct Professor – Marine Biology

Point Loma Nazarene
05.2025 - Current
  • Co-teach graduate-level Marine Biology course, integrating lectures, fieldwork, and lab components
  • Design and deliver interactive lessons covering marine ecosystems, biodiversity, and conservation
  • Lead snorkel-based field labs, guiding students in marine organism identification and habitat analysis
  • Develop and grade assessments to evaluate student understanding of complex biological concepts
  • Facilitate classroom discussions to promote critical thinking and scientific communication
  • Collaborate with faculty on curriculum development and instructional planning
  • Support student learning through one-on-one mentorship and academic guidance

Teaching Assistant – Organismal Biology Lab

Point Loma Nazarene
01.2025 - 05.2025
  • Assisted in the instruction of undergraduate labs covering animal diversity, physiology, and evolution
  • Guided students through dissections, microscope work, and hands-on lab activities
  • Reinforced lecture material by facilitating discussions and answering student questions
  • Supported faculty in grading lab reports, quizzes, and practical exams
  • Helped prepare lab materials and maintained specimens and equipment for each session
  • Promoted student engagement through a collaborative, inquiry-based learning environment
  • Monitored safety protocols and encouraged responsible lab practices

Ecology Monitoring and Habitat Restoration Intern

San Diego River Park Foundation
01.2025 - Current
  • Monitored native wildlife habitats and contributed to ecological data collection efforts
  • Educated members of the public and volunteers about local ecology and restoration goals
  • Participated in the removal of invasive plant species to improve habitat quality
  • Supported ongoing habitat restoration initiatives in riparian and upland environments
  • Collaborated with conservation staff and community groups during field-based projects

Professional Aquarist

Reliant Aquarium Services
09.2022 - 06.2023
  • Maintained and monitored coral reef aquariums, ensuring optimal water chemistry and ecosystem balance
  • Operated and maintained advanced life support systems and filtration equipment for marine displays
  • Assisted with exhibit design, setup, and modifications to improve animal welfare and guest engagement
  • Propagated live coral species for use in educational and display settings
  • Conducted routine water quality testing and habitat maintenance to support animal health
  • Applied critical thinking to solve husbandry challenges and maintain high standards of care
  • Contributed to public engagement by preparing displays and maintaining visually appealing exhibits

Education

Master of Science - Biology

Point Loma Nazarene University
San Diego, CA
05-2025

Bachelor of Arts - Biology

Ball State University
Muncie, IN
08.2022

Skills

  • Enthusiastic science educator with experience leading undergraduate labs
  • Skilled in aquatic animal husbandry and marine system maintenance for instructional use
  • Scuba certified and experienced in field-based marine biology applications
  • Proficient in basic GIS for ecological mapping and habitat assessment
  • Hands-on experience with animal restraint, amphibian and fish care, and farm animal husbandry
  • Certified Pool Operator and Aqua Technician with water quality and safety expertise
  • Emergency Medical Responder (EMR), CPR (adult and infant), and AED trained
  • Familiar with lab preparation, student supervision, and promoting safety in hands-on environments
  • Proficient with life support systems, hand tools, and basic field equipment operation
  • Experienced in facilitating hands-on learning with live animals and real-world biological systems

Timeline

Adjunct Professor – Marine Biology

Point Loma Nazarene
05.2025 - Current

Teaching Assistant – Organismal Biology Lab

Point Loma Nazarene
01.2025 - 05.2025

Ecology Monitoring and Habitat Restoration Intern

San Diego River Park Foundation
01.2025 - Current

Professional Aquarist

Reliant Aquarium Services
09.2022 - 06.2023

Master of Science - Biology

Point Loma Nazarene University

Bachelor of Arts - Biology

Ball State University

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Hayden Huff