Open to opportunities

James Powell

@jamespowell2

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Environmental biologist and data scientist specializing in predictive modeling, GIS, and scientific research.

United States

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What I'm looking for

I seek interdisciplinary roles combining environmental science and data analytics where I can lead predictive modeling, GIS projects, and publish research while collaborating across teams.

I am an environmental biologist and data scientist with hands-on experience leading federally funded analytical projects, remote field station operations, and DoD-related research. I combine ecological knowledge with software development and statistical modeling to deliver actionable insights.

I have built predictive models, performed spatial and statistical analyses, and integrated complex data sources to inform decision-making and publications. I have worked across NASA MUREP, Naval History & Heritage, and academic research stations, contributing to peer-reviewed manuscripts and positive identifications in defense-related projects.

I prioritize interdisciplinary collaboration, rigorous quality control, and clear communication of results to diverse audiences. My technical toolkit includes Python, R, GIS, SQL, and data visualization tools, which I use to transform environmental data into reliable, policy-relevant recommendations.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Laboratory Manager

University of the Virgin Islands

Dec 2023 - Dec 2025 (2 years)

Directed research operations at a remote field station, coordinated design and construction of lab data collection/processing systems, and oversaw publication of peer-reviewed scientific projects.

Field Research Data Collection Experimental Design GIS Statistical Analysis Scientific Publishing Quality Control

Project Manager

NASA MUREP Division

Dec 2024 - Aug 2025 (8 months)

Managed analysis, quality control, and coordination of federally funded analytical projects; built predictive models and statistical analyses to extract actionable insights and communicate results to diverse stakeholders.

Statistical Analysis Python R Data Integration Project Management Data Visualization

Graduate Researcher

University of the Virgin Islands

Aug 2022 - Apr 2025 (2 years 8 months)

Oversaw data collection, interpretation, and communication for marine and environmental research projects; contributed to multiple manuscripts and developed models of biogeochemical processes.

Statistical Modeling R Python Data Analysis Scientific Writing GIS

Data Analyst

Naval History and Heritage Command

Jan 2023 - Aug 2023 (7 months)

Performed statistical and GIS spatial analyses of classified military assets, developed software/models to inform congressional policy, and supported DoD research initiatives including positive identification of historical naval targets.

Statistical Modeling Software Development Python R SQL Remote Sensing

Research Assistant

Virginia Commonwealth University

Aug 2017 - May 2022 (4 years 9 months)

Conducted environmental and biological research focusing on data collection, analysis, interpretation, and communication to support academic publications and projects.

Data Analysis R Python Statistical Techniques Experimental Design

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

University of the Virgin Islands

Master of Science, Marine and Environmental Science

2022 - 2025

Activities and societies: Advisory committee membership; supervised data collection and interpretation; authored multiple manuscripts (in review/pending).

Master's in Marine and Environmental Science with research focusing on aquatic biogeochemical processes, data collection, analysis, and publication preparation.