Natasha Atkins

Natasha Atkins is a passionate and detail-oriented environmental science professional currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Environmental Science and Management at the Bren School of UC Santa Barbara, specializing in Conservation Planning. With a strong academic foundation and a 4.0 GPA, Natasha brings expertise in data analysis, GIS mapping, technical writing, and environmental science.

Natasha’s professional experience includes air quality research, science communication, and stakeholder engagement. As a Research Intern for the Tri-Valley Air Quality and Climate Alliance, she conducted an independent research project analyzing the health impacts of wildfire-related PM2.5 exposure. She published this study as a first-author in a peer-reviewed journal. She has experience utilizing R/R Studio and ArcGIS for data-driven environmental analysis and has engaged with diverse community members through educational outreach.

In addition to her technical skills, Natasha has demonstrated leadership and collaboration in both academic and professional settings, leading undergraduate research teams, training new employees in the retail sector, and managing social media outreach for small businesses. She is committed to advancing sustainable solutions that address environmental justice related challenges.

ENVIRONMENTAL PROJECT EXPERIENCE

Upland Vegetation Site Survey and Analysis for Restoration – UC Davis, Putah Creek in Davis, CA (3/23–6/23)

Collected and analyzed data on upland vegetation to understand percent cover of invasive vs native species

Restoration site Management Plan for Quercus Agrifolia – UC Davis, Putah Creek in Davis, CA (6/23)

Conducted literature review and developed 4.5-page management plan for use by land managers in restoration

Proposal for Sentiment Analysis of Wildfire Mitigation Measures – Bren School, (9/24-12/24)

Co-authored 3-page proposal for Master’s Capstone Project in partnership with NCEAS

EXPERIENCE 

Research Intern – Tri-Valley Air Quality and Climate Alliance (TVAQCA), Livermore, California (1/23–10/23)

• Published 17-page research paper as first author in a peer reviewed journal
• Conducted independent research study on the respiratory health effects associated with PM2.5 exposure from wildfire smoke and presented findings to board members
• Interacted with over 250 community members at outreach events, providing educational information

on air quality concerns

• Utilized Python code to extract data from PurpleAir and monitor PM2.5 trends
• Conducted 5 types of statistical analysis to analyze data and produced figures using Microsoft Excel

General Merchandiser and Team Trainer – Target, San Diego, California (1/24–8/24)

• Trained over 15 new team members in 5 key areas, providing guidance on standard procedures, explaining customer service expectations, and ensuring a smooth transition into their new role 
• Utilized problem-solving skills to address guest inquiries and ensure a positive shopping experience
• Demonstrated strong teamwork and collaboration by working with other team members in various departments to ensure efficient store operations

Social Media Manager – Ninja Skincare, Nevada City, California (1/21–6/24)

• Produced 3 marketing posts per week using Canva design with curated captions to increase engagement
• Virtually interacted with customers 1 on 1, answering questions and organizing brand deals
• Collaborated with the social media team to ensure organizational efficiency

EDUCATION

Master of Environmental Science and Management, 4.0 GPA (Expected June 2026)

Conservation Planning Specialization

Bren School of Environmental Science & Management – University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB)

Highlighted Coursework: Conservation Planning Practicum, Conservation Results: How to Make Them Happen GIS, Data Science for Environmental Science & Management (all completed by June 2026)

Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science and Management, 3.78 GPA (June 2023)

University of California, Davis (UCD)

Honors/Awards: Dean’s Honors, Citation for Outstanding Performance in Environmental Science and Management, Luther and Marie Davis Scholarship Recipient 2019, Cal Ag Scholarship Recipient 2022

Highlighted Coursework: Restoration Ecology, GIS, Environmental Monitoring, Environmental Policy

Volunteer Work: Research Assistant for Oak Seedling Experiment, Quail Ridge Reserve (10/22)