Interviews with Marine Scientists!

Allison Henderson

Marine Biology Research Technician

Could you describe your work/research and how you got interested in this field?
My work is a mix of field and lab work. I work with large brown algae, commonly known as kelp. We are determinig if it is possible to hybridize different species. In the lab, I conduct reciprocal crosses of various kelp species. In the field, I collect reproductive tissue of kelp, and look at the distribution of different species.
I first became interested in Phycology when I came to the Bamfield Marine Station to take a course. It was the combination of being in a this fabulous new environment, and working with people who are also interested in algae that got me hooked."

What training and education did you need to obtain this job?
"I have a B.Sc. in Agricultural Biology, and a lot of research experience. I think that experience is equally as important as academics."

What specific skills do you use on this job?
"I need to be inventive and organize my time well, I also must have good record keeping and accuracy. I use computer skills to enter data into a form that is easy to access and understand."

What personal qualities are important in this job?
"Good communication skills, perseverence and patience are definitely assets."

What is your work schedule (Days, hours per day, and overtime)?
"As a research assistant I work 35 hours a week, and right now I'm also working part time as a teaching assistant for the Phycology class at the station, which adds another 10 hours a week. I am also working as a Seaweed specialist for Public Education. My working hours are quite flexible."

What benefits do you get?
"In terms of traditional benefits such as medical and dental, there aren't any. Lab technicians aren't unionized. There are so many daily benefits...working in a beautiful place in an area that I love."

What do you like about your job? What do you dislike?
"I really enjoy working outside with something that I love and have an interest in. I also enjoy setting my own schedule. I don't really like working by myself, but other than that, the job is great."

In retrospect, is there anything that you would have done differently to get to where you are now?
"No!"

What would you say is the general range of income for a marine biologist research technician?
"The range is likely between $10 000-15 000(CAD)."

What courses in high school would be helpful to prepare someone for the training of this job?
"Biology, chemistry, physics and math, and do well in them! It also helps a lot to volunteer in any of the sciences, some ideas are to volunteer at an aquarium, or join a conservation group, and just get involved!"

Do you ever consider doing something in a different area?
"Yes, I still strongly consider working agriculture and public education. I also think about starting a business."

Is there anything about your job that you wish you could change?
"I wish that I could be in the field all the time, diving, and collecting and identifying different algae."

What advice do you have for young students interested in marine biology?
"Do lots of reading, volunteering, and get active and learn as much as you can. Start with the biology of your backyard, check out the bugs and the flowers. If you're curious, get out there!"

Is marine biology important in society?
"It's the study of life in the ocean...of course it's important! People need to learn about what is happening in our natural environment. Staying connected is a good thing."

Do you keep up with the news? Do you think it is important for marine biologists to do this?
"Yes, and I think it's important for everyone, not just marine biologists."

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