Sophie Hou – Passionate About Aquatic Life
Caring for Aquatic Creatures with Knowledge and Heart
About Me
I’m Huiyi (Sophie) Hou – a marine biology graduate and certified animal carer with a deep passion for aquatic life and hands-on animal care. With a Master of Science in Marine Biology and Ecology from James Cook University and a Certificate III in Animal Care Services, I have combined academic knowledge with practical skills to support the health and welfare of aquatic species.
My experience includes working with green sea turtles in a research setting, where I contributed to nutrition and muscle studies through calm handling and daily care routines. I also supported coral health and resilience research with the Australian Institute of Marine Science, where I developed a strong understanding of water quality monitoring and tank-based observation. These experiences solidified my desire to work in a role where I can care for fish and aquatic animals directly, maintaining healthy systems and ensuring high standards of care.
Now based in Brisbane, I’m eager to contribute my skills, work ethic, and strong attention to detail in an aquarist role. I take pride in being mindful, observant, and respectful toward all animals in my care—and I’m ready to grow professionally in an environment dedicated to aquatic species.
Education
- Certificate III Animal Care Services
TAFE Queensland (Ashmore Campus) | July 2024 – April 2025
Key Learning: Gained strong practical skills in animal safety, health, and nutrition.
Hands-On Experience: Performed health checks, nutrition management, and ensured safe care environments.
Communication: Built effective communication skills for working with clients and team members.
- Master of Information Technology
Queensland University of Technology (QUT) | July 2021 – December 2023
- Master of Science (Marine Biology and Ecology)
James Cook University | February 2016 – July 2017
Relevant coursework:
- Aquaculture: principles and practices
- Aquaculture: Hatchery techniques
- Research and communication skills in the natural sciences
- Coral reef ecology
- Professional placement: Australian Institute of Marine Sciences
- Master of Science (Environmental Management)
The University of Hong Kong | September 2012 – December 2013
Relevant coursework:
- Ecology
- Conservation and Management of Freshwater Ecosystems
- Bachelor of Science (Environmental Science)
South China Agricultural University | September 2006 – July 2010
Volunteer Experience
- Animal Care Volunteer
Animal Welfare League Qld | August 2023 – April 2025
- Assisted with animal care, cleaning, and adoption procedures at the cat rehoming centre.
- Demonstrated attention to detail and commitment to high standards of care.
- Volunteer Shop Assistant
RSPCA Australia | July 2020 – February 2021
- Supported fundraising efforts by managing customer service and cashier duties.
Interests
- Wildlife conservation and animal welfare
Professional Experience
- Research Assistant
Queensland University of Technology (QUT) | June 2024 – December 2024
- Developed Python scripts to collect, extract and analyse QGIS rainfall radar data for the new water living lab.
- Code Camp Teacher
Code Camp | December 2021 – December 2024
- Taught 2D game design and animation to students, fostering creativity and technical skills.
- Provided hands-on coding instruction.
- Antarctica Data Analytics Research Assistant
Queensland University of Technology (QUT) | January 2023 – September 2023
- Analysed large datasets for the Securing Antarctica’s Environmental Future (SAEF).
- Caraplace Turtle Health Research Assistant
James Cook University | November 2018 – December 2018
- Assisted a PhD student in researching the correlation between nutrition and muscle content of green turtles.
- Conducted green turtle husbandry tasks including calm animal handling and food preparation.
- Coral Project Data Analytic Research Assistant
Australian Institute of Marine Science | August 2016 – June 2017
- Utilized Image J to measure coral growth rates and identify resilient corals for future restoration.
- Examined variation across coral families to determine the most adaptive species.
- Collaborated with a team at the Australian Institute of Marine Science in Townsville, Australia.
- Shark Project Research Assistant
James Cook University | February 2016 – July 2016
- Analyzed shark behavior in the Great Barrier Reef and South East Asia using EventMeasure software.
- Tagged and prepared video footage for analysis on the Global FinPrint Project at James Cook University.
- Developed skills in data analysis, marine biology, and research methodology.
National Sea Simulator from AIMS
Source: https://www.aims.gov.au/about/facilities/national-sea-simulator
Contact me
Email: houhuiyisophie@gmail.com
Brisbane, Queensland, Australia