Jamie Lynn Merrill, Aquarium Biologist (with a background in Herpetology)
HOW LONG HAVE YOU WORKED FOR THE MUSEUM?
I’ve worked for the museum for nine months.
WHAT’S YOUR WORKDAY LIKE?
The day starts by doing a wellness check on every fish or animal under my care. I also check all of the filters and exhibits to make sure everything is running properly and is looking pretty for the public. Then, I move on to cleaning the exhibits and feeding the animals. Somedays go smoothly, and some days are more hectic. But working with animals ensures that there are never any boring days.
ANY FUNNY WORK STORIES?
Not funny, but interesting. The museum was only open for 2 hours on my first day before we went into the national shutdown because of Covid-19. So, it was a pretty odd way to start a new job - trying to learn all of the ins and outs of the exhibits, all while trying to stay six feet apart and behind a mask. But, it was also kind of cool being able to learn everything while not being in the public eye.
TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOUR BACKGROUND AND EDUCATION
I come from a family that loves animals of all types. I have an aunt and uncle that are wildlife rehabilitators in Texas. So I have seen all kinds of animals through them. But, I decided that I wanted to be a marine biologist when I was four years old.
My family then bought a pet store when I was 15 years old and that is when I discovered my love for reptiles and amphibians. I graduated from Nicholls State University in Thibodaux, LA with a degree in Marine Biology in 2010. Since then I have worked at several aquariums and animal institutes before coming to the museum in March of 2020. I also breed snakes on the side just for the fun of figuring out the genetics of it all.
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THIS CAREER?
Animals are my life, I could never work with anything else. So, this is a perfect mix for my love of fish and reptiles.
HOW DOES YOUR JOB CONTRIBUTE TO CONSERVATION?
I teach people every day about why all animals are good. Even the icky ones. They all serve a purpose and should not be punished just because they are scary looking.
ANY ADVICE FOR A STUDENT INTERESTED IN A BIOLOGY OR MUSEUM CAREER?
Biology is a difficult field but it is very rewarding. You just have to be patient and trust the journey because it will lead you to something amazing.
