OATA has welcomed Emily Maunder as its new Scientific Support Officer.

Emily joins from Pets at Home, having previously worked in a number of independent aquatics retailers and a public aquarium before lecturing in Animal Welfare at Moulton College. She also has a first-class Master’s degree in Marine Biology from the University of Southampton.

In her new role Emily will support OATA’s Scientific and Technical Advisor Dr Matthew Bond with analysis, research and evaluation on a diverse portfolio of issues affecting the industry, and support the delivery of the trade body’s City & Guilds-accredited training programmes.

OATA Chief Executive Dominic Whitmee welcomed Emily to the team: “Emily has an excellent range of experience, from working in the industry, to lecturing on animal welfare, as well as a track record in data analysis that will be invaluable to her new role. We’re very pleased she has joined the team because we have plenty to keep her busy, from preparing for the CITES marine fish project to compiling our annual Trade Statistics report.”

Emily Maunder said: “I’m thrilled to be working with OATA to bring together my academic and industry experience for the betterment of the aquarium trade. The industry faces numerous challenges and I am delighted to have been given a role where I can help not only the industry itself but the animals it depends on.

“I've always had a soft spot for livebearers and currently have a tank full of Goodeids but I'm always on the lookout for more!”

In her spare time Emily also plays the Euphonium in a number of brass bands.