Troy Zaikis studied at Oklahoma State University where he was involved in research with Zebra Mussels, an invasive species. Troy has also aided in research on many fish species and water bodies located in Oklahoma. Since working with Reagan Smith Troy has worked on Federal Applications for Permits to Drill, Biological Evaluations, Spill Prevention Control and Countermeasures Plans and as an environmental monitor on federal and state owned lands. Troy also has experience in American Burying Beetle presence absence surveys and bait aways. Troy specializes in aquatic ecology and wildlife research.