Ainslie graduated from James Cook University in 2007 and has since completed the Literature Review and field research components of a Graduate Certificate of Research Methods.

Since 2004, Ainslie has gained broad experience and skills in flora and fauna surveys, working in a diverse range of ecosystems in many bioregions including the Wet Tropics, Desert Uplands, Einasleigh Uplands, Brigalow Belt, Central Queensland Coast, Mitchell Grass Downs and Cape York Peninsula. She is proficient in field sampling collection methods, data interpretation methods, ethical handling of study organisms, and the application of research permits and relevant legislation.

Since joining NRA in 2010, Ainslie has developed skills in GIS, specialist threatened species assessments (eg Cassowary, Greater Large-eared Horseshoe Bat, rainforest stream-dwelling frogs and Black-throated Finch) and aquatic invertebrate sampling and identification.