I'm Rafael del Río Arrillaga, and I bring a unique blend of academic prowess and practical experience to the table. My journey started with a Bachelor's in Chemistry and culminated in a Master's in Marine Science, both from the esteemed National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM). My academic pursuits have honed my analytical skills and instilled in me a deep curiosity about the natural world.
But I'm not just a scholar—I'm a hands-on worker with a diverse skill set. From conducting research on the immune responses of marine organisms to exploring the behavior of bubbles, my academic endeavors have been complemented by real-world experiences. As a certified diving instructor (thanks to the World Confederation of Underwater Activities) and a technical diver and cave diver (certified by the National Association for Cave Diving), I've delved into the depths of the ocean, gaining invaluable insights along the way.
My professional journey has taken me across various industries and roles. From coral reef restoration diving to managing hotels and guiding cave dives, I've thrived in environments that demand adaptability and problem-solving. Whether I'm working solo or as part of a team, I bring a can-do attitude and a knack for finding solutions to the table. Colleagues and supervisors have consistently commended my work ethic and versatility, making me confident in my ability to excel in any setting.
Beyond my professional endeavors, I'm a lifelong learner. I'm currently expanding my linguistic horizons by studying French and staying abreast of the latest developments in my fields of interest. And with ongoing projects and publications stemming from my master's thesis work, my passion for research continues to drive me forward.
In essence, I'm Rafael del Río Arrillaga—a scientist, a diver, a problem solver, and a lifelong learner. With a solid foundation in scientific inquiry, practical expertise in diving instruction, and a proven track record of success, I'm ready to tackle any challenge that comes my way.
As a diving instructor, I facilitated SCUBA diving courses and guided diving excursions for clients of SCUBA Sur in Gran Canaria, Spain. Responsibilities included providing instruction on diving techniques, ensuring safety protocols were followed, and leading dives to explore the underwater environment. This role required strong communication skills, a thorough understanding of diving principles, and the ability to adapt to varying skill levels of divers.
In these roles at the Institute of Marine Science and Limnology at UNAM, Mexico, I participated in coral reef restoration projects and conducted sampling of coral reefs for research purposes. Responsibilities included SCUBA diving to assess reef health, collecting data on coral species and abundance, and assisting with restoration efforts. These positions required a strong understanding of marine ecosystems, SCUBA diving proficiency, and the ability to work effectively as part of a research team.
As a SCUBA cavern guide and store manager at "Dive Tulum," a SCUBA diving center in Tulum, Mexico, I led guided dives in the region's underwater caverns and cenotes, providing safe and enjoyable experiences for divers. Responsibilities included conducting dive briefings, guiding divers through underwater cave systems, and ensuring adherence to safety protocols. Additionally, I managed the dive center's retail store, overseeing inventory, sales, and customer service. This role required strong leadership skills, SCUBA diving expertise, and retail management experience.
Spanish (native)
English (near native)
🔍 With a background in Chemistry and Marine Science, coupled with a diverse work history, I bring a unique blend of digital skills to the table:
📊 Proficient in data analysis tools like Excel, R and Python, honed through my research projects in marine biology and chemistry.
🔬 Experience with scientific software and databases, enhancing my ability to conduct research and analyze complex data sets effectively.
🌐 Familiarity with web-based platforms for collaboration and project management, acquired through my roles in coral reef restoration and hospitality management.
💡Adaptability to new technologies, demonstrated by my ability to learn and utilize various digital tools in diverse work environments.