Nicole McHugh
Vancouver
Summary
Environmental scientist specializing in biogeochemistry and the effects of contaminants on marine and wetland ecosystems. Graduate student at the University of British Columbia, experienced in leading research projects, and analyzing complex datasets. Developed innovative microplastic sampling and extraction methods, advancing environmental quality management. Committed to applying technical and analytical expertise to deliver sustainable solutions in environmental consulting.
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
Work History
Graduate Student – Marine Biogeochemistry Lab
University of British Columbia
Vancouver
09.2022 - Current
- Led a microplastic investigation project, managing intensive boat-based field operations, and implementing strict QA/QC protocols to ensure sample integrity.
- Assisted with the installation of pump systems at two major wastewater treatment facilities in Vancouver, BC, enhancing sampling capacity.
- Developed a comprehensive chemical treatment protocol that improved microplastic extraction efficiency from diverse environmental matrices, including wastewater, combined sewer overflow, seawater, freshwater, and sediment.
- Engineered a multi-valved in-line filtration system for sampling large water volumes at multiple depths to collect microplastics.
- Collaborated with the City of Vancouver, Metro Vancouver, and the Canadian Coast Guard on environmental monitoring and compliance initiatives.
- Trained and supervised an undergraduate student in the biogeochemical laboratory, ensuring adherence to safety protocols and quality standards.
BCCMWS Research Assistant
Coastal Carolina University
Conway
09.2021 - 05.2022
- Calibrated, tested, and deployed environmental instrumentation, and monitored real-time water quality data networks.
- Engineered an elutriation column to investigate microplastics in marsh sediment from estuarine systems.
Marine Ecotoxicology Intern
Mote Marine Laboratory
Sarasota
05.2021 - 08.2021
- Utilized solid-phase extraction (SPE) and mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS) techniques to quantify harmful algal bloom toxins in the Gulf of Mexico for the Florida Wildlife and Conservation Commission's community health advisories.
- Supported Florida's Red Tide Mitigation Initiative by expediting project timelines, enhancing final report delivery, and creating data visualizations for effective communication.
Education
Master of Science - Oceanography
University of British Columbia
Vancouver, BC06-2025
Bachelor of Science - Honors Marine Science
Coastal Carolina University
Conway, SC05-2022
Skills
Environmental Data Analysis: ArcGIS, Microsoft Suite (Excel, Word, Teams), Python, R Studio
Technical writing, reporting, and data visualization
Interdisciplinary collaboration and team coordination
Acute attention to detail
Flexible and adaptable to changing project needs
Environmental Monitoring, Fieldwork, and Instrumentation (Water Sampler Pumps, Gravity Corer, YSI EXOSondes, pH, DO)
Regulatory Compliance and Knowledge
Accomplishments
- PICES-2024 Annual Meeting, Honolulu, HI (Awarded NSF Grant, Best Poster Presentation)
- UBC Microplastic Symposium, Vancouver, BC (May 2023)
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Graduate Student – Marine Biogeochemistry Lab
University of British Columbia
09.2022 - Current
BCCMWS Research Assistant
Coastal Carolina University
09.2021 - 05.2022
Marine Ecotoxicology Intern
Mote Marine Laboratory
05.2021 - 08.2021
Master of Science - Oceanography
University of British Columbia
Bachelor of Science - Honors Marine Science
Coastal Carolina University
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