Thomas Van Alphen
Guelph,Canada
Summary
Environmental science graduate with 2+ years of experience in highly regulated technical environments, with strengths in data collection, quality assurance, technical documentation, and protocol compliance. Hands-on background in ecological field research, fisheries monitoring, wildlife observation, habitat maintenance, and familiarity with CABIN water-quality sampling protocols. Experienced working independently in physically demanding outdoor environments and collaborating effectively within multidisciplinary teams. Prepared to contribute to environmental consulting and conservation projects through field investigations, environmental monitoring, ecological data collection, habitat assessment, and accurate technical documentation and reporting.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
Work History
Research Technician Level 2
Transpharmation Ltd.
Fergus, Canada
04.2025 - Current
- Executed technical procedures and sample collection activities in a highly regulated environment requiring strict adherence to protocols, QA/QC standards, and detailed documentation.
- Managed, verified, and interpreted study data using basic statistical methods; prepared figures, records, and technical summaries to ensure accurate reporting and compliance.
- Operated and maintained specialized analytical equipment while coordinating inventory and workflow to ensure uninterrupted project operations.
- Worked independently and in a small team in a highly regulated GLP-compliant preclinical pharmacology environments in strict accordance with OECD GLP, CCAC guidelines, and institutional quality controlled SOPs.
- Supported health and safety, quality, and continuous improvement initiatives to maintain compliance with regulatory and organizational standards.
- Provided training and guidance to new staff on procedures, documentation practices, and safe work methods.
Research Technician Level 1
Transpharmation Ltd.
Fergus, Canada
01.2024 - 04.2025
- Conducted animal health and behavioural observations, monitored study endpoints on hundreds of animals, and promptly identified and documented significant changes for timely intervention.
- Supported regulated research studies by collecting and processing samples, maintaining accurate study records, and ensuring compliance with documentation standards.
- Ensured data integrity, regulatory compliance, and adherence to ethical and organizational standards.
- Operated laboratory equipment and followed established SOPs, quality-assurance procedures, and safety protocols.
- Trained and supported new Animal Care Technicians in animal handling, husbandry procedures, health observations, and facility practices.
Animal Care Technician
Transpharmation Ltd.
Fergus, Canada
05.2023 - 01.2024
- Monitored animal health and behaviour during routine husbandry and handling, identifying and reporting concerns to appropriate staff.
- Performed animal handling, husbandry, feeding, grooming, and movement activities while prioritizing animal welfare and safe work practices.
- Ensured clean, sanitary, and biosecure animal housing, laboratory, and testing environments by adhering to facility standards and established procedures.
- Conducted routine inspections of animal housing and facility areas, identifying maintenance, sanitation, and animal-welfare concerns; implemented practical solutions within the scope of the role and escalated issues requiring additional support to appropriate staff..
- Executed thorough cleaning, maintenance, and facility-support activities in animal rooms, kennels, and testing areas to promote health and welfare.
- Supported laboratory and study operations through accurate labelling, sample and equipment preparation, data entry, and record keeping.
Animal Attendant
African Lion Safari
Hamilton, Canada
04.2022 - 09.2022
- Supported daily care and monitoring of a diverse collection of species, including lions, rhinoceroses, giraffes, cheetahs, kangaroos, nilgai, and primates, while following established animal-welfare and safety procedures.
- Maintained wildlife and habitat conditions through routine care, conducting water-supply checks, enclosure maintenance, and sanitation to uphold species-specific procedures and animal-welfare standards.
- Monitored wildlife health, behaviour, and environmental conditions across seven wildlife reserves spanning 740 acres, documenting concerns and reporting to appropriate staff to ensure optimal animal welfare.
- Conducted regular patrols and wildlife observations across diverse managed habitats, responding appropriately to changing animal behaviour and field conditions.
- Performed habitat and grounds maintenance, managing vegetation, controlling weeds, repairing fences, and maintaining wildlife enclosures to support safe and healthy environments for animals.
- Worked independently in physically demanding outdoor conditions while maintaining safe work practices and adapting to changing weather, terrain, and operational requirements.
Dock Labourer
Grey-Bruce Coating & Insulation/Docks Unlimited
Owen Sound, Canada
04.2021 - 09.2021
- Installed and maintained seasonal dock systems at residential and commercial waterfront locations, enhancing accessibility and usability for clients.
- Executed physically demanding tasks in diverse outdoor and aquatic environments, ensuring safe handling of materials over 100 lbs to meet project safety standards.
- Operated trailers, power tools, and hand tools while adhering to project specifications and safety protocols.
- Adapted to fluctuating weather, terrain, and site conditions while ensuring high productivity and quality standards.
- Communicated with clients throughout projects to clarify requirements and provide updates, ensuring installations aligned with project specifications and client expectations.
Painting Crew Lead
Student Works Painting
Owen Sound and Guelph, Canada
05.2018 - 09.2019
- Supervised and coordinated crews of 4–6 workers on residential and commercial projects, delegating tasks and managing daily workloads to meet project timelines and quality expectations.
- Communicated with clients to clarify project requirements, provide timely updates, address concerns, and ensure satisfaction with project outcomes.
- Enforced safety procedures and monitored job sites, ensuring compliance with safety standards and minimizing risks during operations.
- Executed physically demanding tasks at heights and in diverse outdoor environments, adhering to fall-protection protocols and maintaining a safe work environment.
Education
Bachelor of Science (Honours) Degree -
University of Guelph
Guelph, ON06-2023
Pre-Health Science Program Certificate -
Fanshawe College
London, ON06-2017
Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) -
Westhill Secondary School
Owen Sound, ON06-2015
Skills
Environmental & Field Skills
- Ecological & fisheries field research
- Wildlife observation & monitoring
- Water-quality sampling - CABIN protocol (academic/coursework experience)
- Field data collection & documentation
- Habitat & grounds maintenance
- Field logistics & equipment handling
- Outdoor & aquatic field operations
Data & Technical Skills
- GIS - academic/coursework experience
- Data management & QA/QC
- Descriptive statistics & data interpretation
- Technical documentation & reporting
- SOP & protocol compliance
- Microsoft Excel, Word & Google Workspace
Field & Practical Qualifications
- Ontario Full Class G Driver’s Licence
- Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC)
- Emergency First Aid & CPR-C
- Working at heights
- Power tools & equipment operation
- Physically demanding outdoor work
- Staff training & mentoring
- Client communication
- Independent & team based work
Volunteer Experience
Research Volunteer | University of Western Ontario – Salmon Research Study | Sydenham River, ON | Jun 2011 – Sept 2012
- Supported Ph.D. researchers conducting field-based ecological research investigating salmon spawning patterns in the Sydenham River.
- Conducted fisheries fieldwork across multiple river sites, including fish-gate monitoring, salmon capture and tagging, and ecological data collection.
- Assisted with fisheries and population monitoring, field logistics, and accurate recording of research observations and data.
Day Surgery Volunteer | Bright Shores Health System | Nov 2015 – Apr 2016
- Supported clinical staff with patient flow, admissions, discharges, and transport while following established hospital safety and confidentiality procedures.
Certifications and Field Qualifications
- Ontario Full Class G Driver’s Licence - 2013–Present
- Emergency First Aid & CPR - St. John Ambulance, Current
- Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC) - Transport Canada
- Ontario Hunter Education / Hunting Licence - 2026
- Possession and Acquisition Licence (PAL) - 2025
- CACC Basic Animal Care and Use Certificate -2011
Timeline
Research Technician Level 2
Transpharmation Ltd.
04.2025 - Current
Research Technician Level 1
Transpharmation Ltd.
01.2024 - 04.2025
Animal Care Technician
Transpharmation Ltd.
05.2023 - 01.2024
Animal Attendant
African Lion Safari
04.2022 - 09.2022
Dock Labourer
Grey-Bruce Coating & Insulation/Docks Unlimited
04.2021 - 09.2021
Painting Crew Lead
Student Works Painting
05.2018 - 09.2019
Bachelor of Science (Honours) Degree -
University of Guelph
Pre-Health Science Program Certificate -
Fanshawe College
Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) -
Westhill Secondary School