While many dream of studying these incredible animals, it is easy to feel discouraged by the thought of spending many years getting a PhD before contributing to their research and conservation. But here’s a little open secret: you don’t need a PhD to make meaningful contributions to the field. To prove it, we asked six […]
Whale research without a PhD? Yes you can! Read More »
So, you have finished your undergraduate or master’s in marine science and set your heart on pursuing a PhD working on a charismatic cetacean species. Whether it’s the killer whale, the beluga, or another species at risk, you would like to find a cool research project, study your dream species, and make a difference. The
Want to do a PhD on killer whales? Start by narrowing your research niche Read More »
Francesca Soster is a 36-year-old Italian whale scientist, currently working as a researcher on bottlenose dolphins in Malta. Here is her story… Francesca’s story started in the textile industry I studied Textile Engineering at the Polytechnic University of Turin. I have completed a Master’s Degree in Nobel Fibres, a specialized path in fabrics and clothing
Whale Scientists Story – Francesca Soster Read More »
Stefano Bellomo is a 32-year-old Italian whale scientist currently working as a marine mammal observer and a social media manager for the Jonian Dolphin Conservation. Here is his story. Stefano’s education at the University of Bari I studied both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in environmental biology at the University of Bari, my city. I wanted
Whale Scientists Story: Stefano Bellomo Read More »
In first grade, I remember the look of shock when I told my friends that my mom was a teacher. They couldn’t imagine teachers ever leaving school. They thought teachers just lived in the classroom, and their sole purpose in life was to teach. Similarly, I think people (both scientists and non-scientists) often believe that their
3 steps to a better work-life balance Read More »
This year, professional development opportunities are extremely limited, due to the global COVID-19 pandemic. Global travel restrictions and lockdowns make conferences and internships almost impossible. But there are other ways how you can advance your professional profile! How can you keep developing your skills and/or doing whale science during the COVID pandemic? Here are six
Whale Science in the time of COVID: how to make it work? Read More »
The world of whale science is broad and can seem overwhelming sometimes – there are so many different options you can focus on. Truth is: you can study behavior, diet, communication, microbiomes, evolution, health, migration, reproduction, acoustics, metabolism, pathology, and so much more. Every whale scientist has their own specific niche, just like the marine
5 Ways to Discover Where You Fit in Whale Science Read More »
Finding a PhD on marine mammals is not an easy task, and not everyone succeeds. But that doesn’t mean your dreams of doing marine mammal research have to come to an end! As someone who has worked on marine mammals, birds, and terrestrial mammals, I give you eight reasons for why doing a PhD on
I can’t find a PhD on marine mammals. What now? Read More »
