Hunter Valdes
Houma
Summary
Full-time Biology and Environmental Science student at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, pursuing dual bachelor’s degrees with a focus on ecology, evolution, zoology, ecosystem conservation, and GIS. Committed to gaining hands-on experience in field and laboratory settings, demonstrating strong analytical skills, and a passion for sustainable practices. Aspires to further academic studies while contributing to impactful environmental and biological research.
Overview
2
2
years of professional experience
Work History
Scholarship Worker
Biology Department at ULL
Lafayette
08.2023 - Current
- Examined ant samples from bird nests under a microscope, identifying and categorizing native and invasive species.
- Utilized Excel to record and analyze species data, including calculating the percentage of area occupied by different species.
- Reviewed and documented thousands of trail cam photos to identify predators and mammals near nesting areas.
- Cleared out laboratory spaces and ensured proper disposal of used trail cameras and batteries.
- Identified and properly labeled specimens of different species of pollinator insect
REU Intern
LUMCON
Cocodrie
06.2024 - 08.2024
- Assisted in conducting biological research in coastal ecosystems.
- Collaborated with team members on data collection and analysis.
- Maintained laboratory equipment and ensured cleanliness.
- Participated in fieldwork to gather environmental samples and observations.
- Presented a formal research presentation summarizing laboratory research conducted during LUMCON's REU
Education
Bachelor of Science - Biology, Environmental Science
University of Louisiana At Lafayette
Lafayette, LA01-2027
High School Diploma -
The Louisiana School For Math Science And The Arts
Natchitoches, LA04-2023
Skills
- Creativity and innovation
- Problem-solving
- Safe specimen handling
- Data and statistical analysis
- Sample checking
- Specimen handling protocols
- Sample preparation
- Hazardous waste disposal
- Instrumentation use
- Data entry
- Scientific writing
- Sample labeling
- Data analysis
- Fieldwork experience
- Scientific communication
- Team collaboration
- Species identification
Education and Training
other,other
Accomplishments
- Received Caroline Dorman Scholar Award from LSMSA 2023
- Live Oaks ULL Scholarship (32+ ACT)
- Received Oran Robert Perry Burke Memorial Scholarship 2024
- Placed on President's List 2023-2024 academic school year (GPA of 3.8 or higher)
- Inducted into Alpha Alpha Alpha Honor Society
Timeline
REU Intern
LUMCON
06.2024 - 08.2024
Scholarship Worker
Biology Department at ULL
08.2023 - Current
Bachelor of Science - Biology, Environmental Science
University of Louisiana At Lafayette
High School Diploma -
The Louisiana School For Math Science And The Arts