MORGAN ROCKWELL
Glen Carbon,USA
Summary
Experienced with providing comprehensive care to animals in clinical environments. Utilizes skills in assisting with medical procedures and ensuring well-being of patients. Knowledge of veterinary protocols and effective communication to ensure quality care and client satisfaction.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
Work History
OPS Technician for Mosquito-Microbe Interactions
University of Florida
Vero Beach, FL, USA
01.2024 - 04.2026
- Conducted routine maintenance on laboratory equipment, ensuring optimal performance and reliability in experiments
- Documented experimental procedures in lab notebooks, maintaining best practices
- Trained new technicians in laboratory safety protocols, promoting a culture of safety within the team environment
- Maintained a safe work environment by strictly adhering to established safety protocols and guidelines
- Conducted an independent project sequencing and testing a novel bacteria for insecticide usage
Dog Boarding and Bather
Orchid Island Dog Spa and Resort
Winter Beach, FL, USA
11.2025 - 03.2026
- Administered attentive care during bathing services to promote pet well-being and foster positive client relationships
- Maintained a clean and organized bathing area, prioritizing safety and hygiene for all pets
- Coordinated with team members to schedule appointments, optimizing workflow and maximizing client satisfaction levels
- Delivered personalized care for dogs, fostering a positive and safe boarding environment for all pets
- Coordinated daily activity schedules for around 10-20 boarded dogs daily, promoting physical exercise and mental stimulation.
- Managed feeding routines and medication administration to support the health and well-being of guests.
Veterinary Clinic Internship
Mermaid Vet Clinic
Vero Beach, FL, USA
07.2025 - 03.2026
- Coordinated patient intake processes, ensuring accurate record-keeping and efficient communication among team members
- Conducted thorough examinations and diagnostic assessments, contributing to effective treatment plans for various species
- Managed inventory of medical supplies, ensuring availability for timely treatments and procedures in the clinic
- Educated pet owners on preventive care practices, fostering stronger client relationships and promoting animal welfare
- Streamlined appointment scheduling to improve client satisfaction and service delivery
- Participated in surgical procedures as a support technician, enhancing patient outcomes through attentive and effective support
Necropsy and Diagnostic Services of Ungulates
University of Florida
Gainesville, FL
07.2022 - 03.2026
- Conducted necropsy procedures on ungulates, adhering to established protocols for accurate diagnoses
- Collaborated with veterinary staff to assess health conditions and determine appropriate treatment plans
- Monitored and recorded vital signs during diagnostic tests, ensuring comprehensive patient evaluations
- Prepared detailed reports on findings from necropsies, contributing to research and educational initiatives
- Maintained compliance with relevant regulatory standards in animal testing and diagnostic services protocols
Graduate Assistant ResearcherVector-Borne Disease
University of Florida
Vero Beach, FL, USA
08.2022 - 12.2024
- Conducted literature reviews to support research projects, synthesizing findings for peer discussions
- Facilitated laboratory training sessions for new team members, enhancing procedural understanding and safety compliance
- Assisted in data collection and analysis for field studies, contributing to ongoing research initiatives
- Developed educational materials for outreach programs each semester, promoting awareness of vector-borne diseases within the community
- Participated in monthly departmental meetings to discuss project progress, fostering collaboration among interdisciplinary teams
- Conducted thesis research on deer malaria by analyzing mosquito blood meals and farmed deer samples
- Used molecular protocols to identify mosquito host and pathogens
Aquatic Field Technician
Illinois Natural History Survey
Alton, IL, USA
05.2022 - 08.2022
- Conducted field surveys to collect data on up to 100 fish daily, contributing to ecological monitoring efforts
- Operated specialized equipment for habitat assessments, enhancing the accuracy of environmental evaluations
- Conducted ecosystem monitoring on the Illinois River by sampling fish, turtles, and water quality with various gear
- Recorded tissue/parasite data and analyzed water samples to assess biological condition
Retail Associate, Baker, Pet Stylist/ Groomer, and Bather
Whisker Bones Supply Co.
Edwardsville, IL, USA
06.2020 - 07.2022
- Delivered exceptional customer service by addressing inquiries and resolving issues, enhancing overall client satisfaction.
- Developed and refined recipes to create high-quality baked goods, enhancing customer satisfaction and loyalty.
- Maintained cleanliness of the baking area by adhering to health and safety regulations consistently.
- Executed precise grooming techniques tailored to individual pet needs, ensuring comfort and aesthetic appeal.
- Implemented best practices for sanitation and safety protocols, promoting a clean environment for clients and pets.
Teaching Assistant – Essentials of Organic and Biochemistry
Millikin University
Decatur, IL, USA
08.2021 - 05.2022
- Facilitated engaging learning experiences by delivering tailored instructional support to students in the classroom.
- Coordinated classroom activities and resources, enhancing student participation and understanding of complex concepts.
- Organized supplemental tutoring sessions, offering personalized support to students struggling with course content.
- Guided students in proper lab safety and protocols while providing hands-on support during experiments.
Swim Instructor/Coach and Lifeguard
Niebur and Myer YMCA
Edwardsville, IL, USA
06.2018 - 12.2021
- Delivered engaging swim lessons tailored to individual skill levels, fostering confidence and water safety awareness.
- Led safety drills and emergency response training, ensuring preparedness and a secure environment for all swimmers.
- Developed personalized lesson plans that aligned with the YMCA's educational standards and objectives for aquatic programs.
- Monitored progress of up to 50 swimmers through regular assessments, providing constructive feedback to support skill development.
- Implemented best practices in pool maintenance and hygiene protocols, contributing to a safe swimming environment.
- Maintained CPR, First Aid, and lifeguard certifications to ensure preparedness for emergency situations during lessons.
Dog Camp Counselor and Kennel Assistant
Club Whisker Bones
Glen Carbon, IL, USA
06.2020 - 09.2020
- Delivered compassionate care to animals, promoting their health and well-being in a kennel environment.
- Managed daily feeding and medication schedules, supporting the nutritional needs of all boarded pets.
- Developed engaging activity plans for up to 50 dogs, enhancing physical exercise and mental stimulation during their stay.
- Assisted with grooming services such as bathing, brushing, nail trimming, and ear cleaning for improved pet hygiene and health.
- Maintained kennel cleanliness and hygiene, reducing the spread of disease and providing a comfortable environment for animals.
Education
Master of Science - Entomology And Nematology
University of Florida
Vero Beach12-2024
Bachelor of Arts - Biology – Veterinary Medicine
Millikin University
Decatur, Illinois05-2022
High School Diploma -
Edwardsville High School
Edwardsville, IL05-2019
Skills
- Attention to detail
- Customer service
- Works well under pressure
- Multitasking and organization
- Maintenance and repairs
- Documentation and reporting
- Patient monitoring
- Team communication
- Animal handling
Timeline
Dog Boarding and Bather
Orchid Island Dog Spa and Resort
11.2025 - 03.2026
Veterinary Clinic Internship
Mermaid Vet Clinic
07.2025 - 03.2026
OPS Technician for Mosquito-Microbe Interactions
University of Florida
01.2024 - 04.2026
Graduate Assistant ResearcherVector-Borne Disease
University of Florida
08.2022 - 12.2024
Necropsy and Diagnostic Services of Ungulates
University of Florida
07.2022 - 03.2026
Aquatic Field Technician
Illinois Natural History Survey
05.2022 - 08.2022
Teaching Assistant – Essentials of Organic and Biochemistry
Millikin University
08.2021 - 05.2022
Retail Associate, Baker, Pet Stylist/ Groomer, and Bather
Whisker Bones Supply Co.
06.2020 - 07.2022
Dog Camp Counselor and Kennel Assistant
Club Whisker Bones
06.2020 - 09.2020
Swim Instructor/Coach and Lifeguard
Niebur and Myer YMCA
06.2018 - 12.2021
Master of Science - Entomology And Nematology
University of Florida
Bachelor of Arts - Biology – Veterinary Medicine
Millikin University
High School Diploma -
Edwardsville High School
Career Interest
- Wildlife conservation veterinarian
- Wildlife rehabilitator
- Vector-borne disease ecology
Outreach And Volunteer
- Secretary, Wildlife Disease Association CANUSA, Present
- Presenter, Molecular Techniques in Mosquito Control Workshop, 2026
- Outreach Coordinator, FMEL Graduate Student Committee, 2025
- Dog Walker and Foster Carer, Humane Society, 2025
- Participant, Osceola Magnet School Insect Day, 2025
- Participant, 6th Transforming Landscapes for a Sustainable Future Conference, 2025
- Participant, Mosquito Scientists High School Program at Vero Beach High School, 2024
- Board Member, Membership Committee at Pelican Island Audubon Society, 2023
- Organizer, Insect Education Teaching Day with Audubon Advocates and IRC RiverKidz, 2023
- Participant, Southeast Trophy Deer Association Spring Fling, 2023
- Participant, RiverKidz Kayaking Trip at Round Island with the Pelican Island Audobon Society, 2023
- Participant, 120th Anniversary Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge Celebration, 2023
- Participant, Indian River STEAM Festival, 2023
- Participant, Florida State Fair: Insect Encounters, 2023
- Participant, 4th Annual Native Landscape Conference, 2023
- Participant, Indian River Lagoon Science Festival, 2022
- Participant, Two Rivers Family Fish Fair: Fish Identification with Illinois Natural History Survey, 2022
- Presenter, Festival of Spring at Rock Springs (Audubon Society and Millikin) Bird Banding Event, 2022
- Presenter, Clean Water Celebration – Sun Foundation Bird Banding Event, 2022
Scholarships And Grants
- FMEL Graduate Student Scholarship, University of Florida, 2023
- Billings Field Study Research Proposal Grant, Millikin University, 2021
- Robert Pensinger DVM Scholarship, Millikin University, 2021
- Millikin University Scholarship, Millikin University, 2019
- College of Fine Arts Scholarship in Music, Millikin University, 2019
- Allison Cassen Competitive Swimming Scholarship, YMCA, 2019
Awards
- 2024 Cyrus R. Lesser Student Competition Award, Florida Mosquito Control Association, 2024
- John and Ula Leighty Research Award, Millikin University, 2022
- Frank G. Brooks Award, 2nd Place in Poster Presentations, Tri-Beta Central Regional Meeting, 2022
- ISAS Student Presentation Award, 1st Place for Poster Presentation in the Zoology Division, Illinois State Academy of Sciences, 2022
- CTCA Scholar All-American Honors, USA Women’s Triathlon, 2021
- Certificate of Completion of the Vector Control Operation training, Gulf South Vector and the University of Miami, 2024
- Certified Mosquito Identification Specialist, University of Florida, 2023
- Certificate Wildlife Medicine Course, Standards for Wildlife Rehabilitation, 2022
Peer-reviewed Publications
- Rockwell, M., Wisely, S.M., Mathias, D.K., Burkett-Cadena, N.D., 2025, Incriminating vectors of deer malaria (Plasmodium odocoilei) at a Florida deer farm., Parasites & Vectors, 18, 1, 308, https://doi.org/10.1186/s13071-025-06942-5
- Kim, D., Stenn, T.M.S., Cooper, V.M., Rockwell, M.N., Wilson, B.C., McCollum, M.T., O’Brien, C.R., Burkett-Cadena, N.D., 2025, A mycelium-based carbon dioxide source for trapping vector mosquitoes., Journal of Medical Entomology, https://doi.org/10.1093/jme/tjaf091
Presentations
- Rockwell, M.N., D.K. Mathias, S.M Wisely, N.D. Burkett-Cadena, Incriminating vectors of deer malaria (Plasmodium odocoilei) at a Florida deer farm., 73rd Annual International Conference of the Wildlife Disease Association, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada, 2025-07-29, Oral Presentation
- Rockwell, M.N., D.K. Mathias, S.M Wisely, N.D. Burkett-Cadena, Incriminating vectors of deer malaria (Plasmodium odocoilei) at a Florida deer farm, 2024 Florida Mosquito Control Association Annual Conference, Rosen Centre Hotel, Orlando, FL, 2024-11-05, Oral Presentation
- Rockwell, M.N., N.D. Burkett-Cadena, Incriminating vectors of Plasmodium odocoilei (deer malaria) at a Florida deer farm., American Mosquito Control Association 90th Annual Meeting, Sheraton Dallas Hotel, Dallas, TX, 2024-03-05, Oral Presentation
- Montenegro-Cooper, V.M., Rockwell, M.N., T. Possebom, Entomology Advocates: What is your role? Symposia for Insects and Influence: Advancing Entomology's Impact on People and Policy., Entomology Society of America, Entomology 2023 Conference, Gaylord National Hotel, National Harbor, MD, 2023-11-07, Panel Discussion
- Rockwell, M.N., N.D. Burkett-Cadena, Incriminating vector of deer malaria (Plasmodium odocoilei) in a Florida deer farm., Entomology Society of America, Entomology 2023 Conference, Gaylord National Hotel, National Harbor, MD, 2023-11-05, Oral Presentation
- Rockwell, M.N., D.K. Mathias, S.M. Wisely, N.D. Burkett-Cadena, Incriminating vector of deer malaria (Plasmodium odocoilei) in a Florida deer farm., 51st Annual Meeting Society for Vector Ecology, Charleston Marriott, Charleston, SC, 2023-09-20, Poster
- Rockwell, M.N., T.E. Wilcoxen, J.T. Nuzzo, J. Seitz, N.D. Burkett-Cadena, Prevalence Francisella tularensis in raptors: A Role for Hippoboscid Flies?, 2022 Florida Mosquito Control Association Annual Meeting, Hammock Beach Resort, Palm Coast, FL, 2022-11-16, Oral Presentation
- Rockwell, M.N., T.E. Wilcoxen, J.T. Nuzzo, J. Seitz, Prevalence of Tularemia in Raptors: A Role for Hawk Flies?, Tri-Beta North Central Regional Meeting, Millikin University, Decatur, IL, 2022-04-30, Oral Presentation
- Rockwell, M.N., T.E. Wilcoxen, J.T. Nuzzo, J. Seitz, Prevalence of Tularemia in Raptors: A Role for Hawk Flies?, 113th Illinois State Academy of Sciences Annual Meeting Zoology Division hosted by Illinois College Jacksonville, Virtual Meeting, 2022-04-09, Poster
- Rockwell, M.N., T.E. Wilcoxen, J.T. Nuzzo, J. Seitz, Prevalence of Tularemia in Raptors: A Role for Hawk Flies?, 16th Annual Emiquon Research Symposium 2022 with the University of Illinois Springfield, Virtual Meeting, 2022-03-30, Oral Presentation
- Rockwell, M.N., T.E. Wilcoxen, J.T. Nuzzo, J. Seitz, Prevalence of Tularemia in Raptors: A Role for Hawk Flies?, 2022 National Wildlife Rehabilitators Association Symposium, Madison, WI, 2022-03-01, Poster