Ivan Gerber

Dedicated and detail-oriented final year Marine Biology student with a strong foundation in scientific research, data analysis and animal care. While my academic background has honed my analytical and problem-solving skills, I am eager to apply my abilities in a customer-focused environment. With a strong foundation of customer service experience in pet insurance, I am known for my exceptional communication skills, teamwork, and adaptability, I am seeking a position where I can leverage my meticulous attention to detail, strong organisational abilities, and enthusiasm for delivering excellent customer service, I always put 100% in and aim to go above and beyond in order to provide the highest standard of products to members of the public.

Faculty Technician - Bioresources - University of Portsmouth, European Xenopus Resource Centre - Portsmouth

(2025-09 - 2026-05)

Perform animal husbandry and lab based tasks in order to achieve the highest standards of animal welfare for exotic and genetically altered amphibians. Carry out feeding, cleaning and assist with dissections of sick animals, ensuring excellent animal welfare throughout. Developed in-depth knowledge of regulated procedures and assembled tanks for amphibians at all stages of their life cycle, while enhancing communication, problem-solving, and team work skills in a research based environment.

• Feeding and cleaning tanks with amphibians at different stages in the life cycle.
• Raising Tadpoles and making adjustments to support growth and changes through metamorphosis
• Bleaching and aciding inner tubes and tanks in order to prevent pathogens from spreading.
• Replacing particulate and carbon filters to ensure strong flow in all tanks in a rack.
• Carrying out general servicing tasks such as health checks, disinfecting and sweeping.
• Contributing to the training of new staff when it comes to various tasks such as feeding.
• Cleaning out sumps and excess waste from sump socks.

Insurance Partner - Sales & Service - Markerstudy Group - Portsmouth

(2024-07 - 2025-08)

Inform pet owners on their insurance policies, providing information based on individual needs and coverage options. Manage client inquiries, check on the status of claims, and assist with policy renewals/cancellations, ensuring excellent customer service throughout. Developed in-depth knowledge of insurance products and regulations, while enhancing communication, problem-solving, and sales skills in a customer-focused environment.

• Assist clients in selecting appropriate pet insurance plans based on their needs
• Provide detailed information on coverage options, policy terms, and claims processes
• Process insurance claims and handle related inquiries efficiently
• Maintain accurate records of client interactions and policy updates
• Offer support with policy renewals and adjustments
• Ensure high levels of customer satisfaction through clear communication and problem-solving
• Collaborate with team members to offer appropriate solutions to queries and improve customer service quality

Audio/Video Tech team volunteer - Christ Central - Portsmouth

(2024-01)

Volunteering as Audio/Visual technical team member at Christ Central church helping the church accomplishes its mission through the production of creative and inspiring services, special events and regular church programs/meetings. General tasks include help setting up for services, ensure visual presentation are all ready for the service, coordinating with other team members ensuring services runs smoothly.

Assistant Aquarist - Aquatics Centre Work Placement - Sparsholt Aquatics Centre - Sparsholt, Winchester

(2023-03 - 2023-03)

As an Assistant Aquarist, my primary responsibilities involved the meticulous care and maintenance of ornamental fish tanks, ensuring the health and well-being of aquatic life, and supporting the aquatics centre team.

• Regularly monitored and maintained the health of ornamental fish by conducting water quality tests, feeding according to specific dietary requirements, and observing fish behavior to identify any signs of illness or distress.
• Performed routine cleaning and upkeep of fish tanks, including water changes, filter maintenance, and algae control to provide a clean and healthy environment for the fish.
• Assisted in managing inventory for fish food, medications, and other supplies, ensuring timely restocking and proper storage.
• Worked closely with other staff members to ensure smooth operations, following instructions and contributing to a positive team environment.
• Adhered to all health and safety guidelines to ensure a safe working environment for both staff and aquatic life.

Research Assistant - Work Placement (remote) - Namisun Ltd - Namibia, Fleet, Hampshire

(2022-02 - 2022-02)

Involved in a project that aimed to grow a Giant Kelp Forest in Lüderitz, Namibia. My primary responsibility was to assess the environmental impact of growing a species of kelp that was not native to the area. Analysed videos of Giant Kelp Forests as part of a project to determine the feasibility of planting kelp in a region that it is not native to. Created project plans and delivered academic presentations. Demonstrated effective communication in a remote working environment.

Vet Technician - Veterinary Centre Work Placement - St Kitts Veterinary Centre - Church Crookham

(2019-06 - 2019-06)

Engaged in floor maintenance, handling sterile equipment, and assisting in consultations. Demonstrated attention to detail in sterile procedures and cleaning tasks. Showcased adaptability and willingness to learn new skills interacting with veterinary staff and customers.

BSc - Marine Biology - University of Portsmouth (2023-09 - 2024-06)

FdSc - Marine Ecology and Conservation - University Centre Sparsholt (2021-09 - 2023-06)

Level 3 Advanced Technical Extended Diploma - Animal Management - Sparsholt College (2019-09 - 2021-06)

Level 2 Diploma - Animal Care - Sparsholt College (2018-09 - 2019-06)

BTEC Level 1 Introductory Certificate - Digital Media - Farnborough College of Technology (2017-09 - 2018-06)