About me
A motivated and detail-oriented Animal Management student at Van Hall Larenstein, combining hands-on fieldwork experience with strong analytical and coding skills. Experienced in ecological data collection, GIS applications, and data analysis, with a growing expertise in translating field observations into robust scientific insights. Driven by a deep interest in ecological and behavioural research, and committed to developing rigorous, data-informed approaches to wildlife studies.
Education
A brief overview of my educational background
2026-present
Minor – Biodiversity: Genetics & Life Histories
Wageningen University & Research
Gained insight into how life history strategies, natural selection, and genetic variation shape biodiversity. Learned to connect ecological processes with genetic management, assess species conservation priorities, and understand the impact of global change on wildlife populations.
2023-present
Bachelor – Animal management
Van Hall Larenstein university of applied sciences
I am currently studying Animal Management with a focus specifically on wildlife at the university of applied sciences Van Hall Larenstein. During my studies i have learned about:
- Animal Behaviour and Physiology, understanding behavioural mechanisms and physiological processes.
- Ecology, knowledge of ecosystem dynamics, and species interactions
- Wildlife Management, experience with conservation strategies, population monitoring, and human-wildlife interactions
- Communication, skilled in scientific writing, reporting, and presenting research findings. As well as formulating communication strategies with local or (inter)national stakeholders.
2021-2023
Software development
Regiocollege Zaandam
I have learned extensive IT skills such as:
- Programming (Python, php, html and css)
- Database modeling
- Data-analysis
Work experience
My previous work experience
2025
Internship Student Researcher
Utrecht University
During a five-month fieldwork internship, I worked on the Nuts About Nuts project studying nut-cracking behaviour in chimpanzees. This included two months of fieldwork at the Chimfunshi Wildlife Orphanage Trust in Zambia and three months at Utrecht University. I was supervised by Dr. Edwin van Leeuwen and PhD student Emile Bryon.
What I learned and did:
- Observed chimpanzees systematically and recorded their behaviour, focusing on tool use and social interactions.
- Analysed behavioural data to identify patterns and factors influencing the spread of nut-cracking techniques.
- Contributed to documenting research procedures and methods to support the ongoing study.
- Worked closely with researchers and local staff, improving teamwork and communication skills.
- Learned to reflect on observations, interpret results, and apply feedback to improve my research approach.
This internship helped me develop practical skills in field research, data analysis, and working as part of an international research team.
2023-2025
Junior data creator
Senang
Working here i have learned to:
- Work securely, Handling data responsibly with attention to privacy, accuracy, and safe digital practices.
- Solve problems, Approaching data issues analytically, troubleshooting errors, and improving workflows.
- Use programming to analyse data, Applying programming tools to clean, structure, and interpret data, supporting evidence-based decision-making.
Contact
+31 6 12723698
otto.hettema@hvhl.nl