Scot Nielson

I make sure that checklists, species information, and other important data are kept safely in the right place. My work supports community-facing projects like eBird and Merlin by persisting uploaded data in a way that analytics and research can run smoothly. I use my background in statistics with my knowledge of databases and engineering to promote conservation of birds (even the ones that wake me up most mornings).

I started calling myself a birder after attending a lecture on birding by journalist Ed Yong and spending a summer unsuccessfully trying to get a clear picture of the American Barn Owl near my house. I love to share the fulfilling experience of engaging with and caring for the natural world.

Education

Bachelor’s of Science, Statistics: Data Science Emphasis, Brigham Young University

Beyond the Lab

One of my favorite non-bird wildlife facts is that researchers have found that playing the sounds of healthy coral reefs underwater encourages fish to return to dying reefs, which in turn begins to restore the system. Beyond the Lab, I love playing historical board games, painting, listening to new musicians, and arguing with my cat Saffron.