My name is Chris Buttermore and I am a scientist that focuses on understanding how a number of variables affect species survival at a physiological level and how our results from scientific inquiry can be leveraged to achieve certain outcomes. Additionally, I use my scientific training to analyze proposals and data to determine their legitimacy in achieving a stated goal versus what the apparent intentions might be. In this world, we rely on an expert class to fulfill duties that are legislated as important to the future of our world. The question, as always, is just how important are these duties? are the results really reliable? And at what cost should they be implemented? I earned a double Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry and Biology in 2014 and a master’s degree in 2016 after my collegiate and professional basketball careers came to an end. Soon after graduation I began working as a contract scientist/consultant for various projects in Texas and abroad. In 2018 I joined the Dallas World Aquarium as the Curator of Amphibians, where I still work today, which really launched my reach into conservation. During my tenure here I entered a PhD program at Auburn University where I am set to finish in 2026. I consult for several active conservation programs in Latin America and the United States of America where I develop science based, long term strategies, aimed at achieving an end goal. Much of my current work focuses on amphibians and crocodilians but also spans across various clades of life. I can best help Minnect users by translating scientific information, be it data or entire official reports, into actionable information as well as helping to navigate environmental restrictions, experimental design, adjust carbon footprint, and animal care or wildlife curation regimes. In addition to these areas of expertise, I have an unique understanding of the inner workings of academia as a member for more than a decade which has shaped my views on education at a wholistic level, especially through the scope of a parent, as a father. If any minnect users wish to discuss the value of a college education I would be glad to describe the moral price that comes with it along with it and how certain traps can be avoided. Early education is another passion of mine which I would also be glad to speak about. I speak English, Spanish, and French fluently and I am pushing ahead with Portuguese. I look forward to talking to you and helping to achieve your efforts.