An advocate for our oceans

I am a marine conservationist currently employed as a post-doctoral marine mammal researcher at UHI Shetland, primarily working under the BLUE CONNECT project. My current research centres around working with communities and industries in Shetland to work together to improve our understanding of whales, dolphins and seals within the Shetland and Fair Isle Marine Mammal Area. I am co-convener of the MASTS Marine Mammal Forum.

Outside of my research, the ocean still plays a huge role in my life. My home is right by the sea and so my days naturally become intricately intertwined with the tides - whether that be as volunteer crew for the RNLI, through getting out and snorkelling or stand-up paddleboarding, or getting my camera and hiking boots on and heading off on the coastal path. The big blue means a lot to me, and I feel passionate about connecting others to the incredible ocean we all share. Through my research, science communication and personal activities I hope to support others in finding their own unique link or connection to nature and the big outdoors, and to then empower them to also be stewards of their local places. I aim to be an advocate for our oceans, for nature and our wild spaces, so that together we can help understand, protect and conserve this big blue planet. 

An advocate for support and inclusivity

I aim to be an ally and advocate for a more just society, both in my work and personal life. To help me learn more about how I can be a better advocate for women, non-binary people and other marginalised groups, I joined the 'Young Woman Lead' programme. Together we developed a toolkit on how to create a safe, inclusive and welcoming community spaces, which has been used by a number of youth and community organisations, for example RespectMe used it as part of their Change Makers Anti-Bulling series. 

As well as reducing gender-based barriers, I also am really motivated to use my voice to support and further learn how to continue to reduce other barriers that affect inclusion (particularly inclusivity in communities, in academia, and in nature and the outdoors). I hope to make the academic and research world a more supportive and comfortable space for anyone to join, without barriers, and for them to feel welcome and supported in this space. I look forward to using my platform as a Scottish Wildlife Trust 'Young Leader' to work towards nature being accessible and inclusive to all. 

Women in Science features:

• • The Sirene Project

  • University of Aberdeen Lighthouse Field Station

  • Scottish Fisheries Museum 

  • @women.doing.science 

  • @womeninoceanscience