Shalana Erlich
San Francisco,CA
Summary
Dedicated MS Biology graduate student at San Francisco State University with hands-on experience in insect vector surveys, forest plot monitoring, naturalist guiding, and habitat restoration projects. Eager to apply strong research, field identification skills (currently developing plant keys), R/QGIS analysis, and naturalist communication to native plant conservation and restoration ecology.
Overview
3
3
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Graduate Researcher
San Francisco State University
San Francisco, CA
08.2025 - Current
- Led research project on insect vectors (aphids, whiteflies, leafhoppers) and agricultural edge effects through data analysis phase
- Managed experimental design, fieldwork, species identification using taxonomic keys, data analysis
- Conducted data analysis in R, developing maps in QGIS, wrote research reports, presented preliminary findings
- Trained and supervised undergraduate research assistants
- Conducted literature reviews to identify gaps in current research methodologies.
Intern, Forest Ecology Research Plot (FERP)
University of California, Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz, CA
10.2024 - 10.2025
- Monitored and measured woody species on long-term forest dynamics plots, tagging individuals and measuring DBH to track growth patterns
- Identified and mapped woody species on designated plots to track forest structural changes and species distribution
- Analyzed leaf litter traps to assess litter-fall composition, contributing to understanding of forest health dynamics
- Compiled and organized field data for lead researchers during forest assessments to support ecological analysis
Naturalist Guide
Canyon Ranch
Woodside, CA
01.2024 - 10.2025
- Presented local history, flora, fauna, and conservation efforts to educate and inspire guests
- Researched ecosystems to provide guests with accurate and engaging nature tour information
- Guided guests through diverse ecosystems, enhancing appreciation for natural environments
- Facilitated educational talks and nature walks to foster connections with the natural world
- Collaborated with team to design and deliver engaging experiences that enhanced guest satisfaction.
Farm Games Event Coordinator
Stanford University
Palo Alto, CA
09.2024 - 09.2025
- Coordinated planning and organizing events to ensure smooth setup and takedown
- Managed execution of events, ensuring seamless operations throughout
- Collaborated on event design to foster teamwork and inclusivity
- Delivered event information to enhance engagement and community involvement
Volunteer Steward
Elkhorn Slough
Moss Landing, CA
10.2024 - 05.2025
- Contributed to oak woodland restoration by planting native species, collecting seeds, and managing invasive species
- Participated in habitat restoration workdays by cutting brush, building burn piles, and removing weeds
- Supported habitat restoration projects through hands-on fieldwork.
- Maintained cleanliness and organization of work areas in the reserve.
Outdoor Education Instructor
Wilderskills
Redwood City, CA
05.2024 - 08.2024
- Taught survival skills: shelter building, fire safety, navigation
- Planned outdoor activities fostering teamwork and inclusivity
- Led children on wilderness hikes with environmental education
- Promoted environmental awareness through hands-on learning
Kayak Guide
Everyday California
San Diego, CA
09.2023 - 08.2024
- Educated groups on marine ecology, protected areas, regional history, fostering appreciation for local ecosystems
- Educated guests about local marine life and environmental conservation.
- Ensured safety protocols were followed before and during each excursion.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Sociology, Minor in History
University of California, Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara, CA06-2022
Associate of Arts - Communication Studies
Foothill College
Los Altos, CA06-2019
Master of Science - Biology
San Francisco State University
San Francisco, CA05-2027
Skills
- Biodiversity assessment
- Field research techniques
- Conservation management
- Project management
- Data analysis
- Project leadership
- Team leadership
- Statistical analysis
Certification
- First Aid and CPR Certification
- Wilderness First Aid Certification (WFR)
Relevant Coursework
- BIOL 700 Introduction to Research Skills
- BIOL 897 Research
- BIOL 870 Biology Colloquium
- BIOL 716 Skills for Scientific Writing
- BIOL 514 California Plant Diversity & Field Botany
References
- Tiena Elias, Graduate Researcher Lab Mate: telias@sfsu.edu
- Carter Phillips, Canyon Ranch Naturalist Guide Manager: carterphillips@gmail.com
Timeline
Graduate Researcher
San Francisco State University
08.2025 - Current
Intern, Forest Ecology Research Plot (FERP)
University of California, Santa Cruz
10.2024 - 10.2025
Volunteer Steward
Elkhorn Slough
10.2024 - 05.2025
Farm Games Event Coordinator
Stanford University
09.2024 - 09.2025
Outdoor Education Instructor
Wilderskills
05.2024 - 08.2024
Naturalist Guide
Canyon Ranch
01.2024 - 10.2025
Kayak Guide
Everyday California
09.2023 - 08.2024
Bachelor of Arts - Sociology, Minor in History
University of California, Santa Barbara
Associate of Arts - Communication Studies
Foothill College
Master of Science - Biology
San Francisco State University