WOMEN IN SEABIRD SCIENCE
Yasmina Rodríguez
she/her
Researcher, PhD candidate
OKEANOS,
University of the Azores
Discipline
Conservation, Ecology, Threats, Policy
Regional Focus
North East Atlantic
Years Active
6-10 years
Species Focus
Petrels and Shearwaters (Procellariidae)
Tell us about your work with seabirds.
My research on seabirds focuses on the anthropogenic impacts that affect them, and their use as bioindicators for marine pollution. Specifically, my area of expertise centers on plastic contamination, where I employ non-invasive methods to study birds that have died from the detrimental effects of light pollution. Thus, over the last few years, my work has not been in the field but mainly in the laboratory. After more than 1,200 necropsied birds, I can say that it is still not pleasant to open a dead animal, but the significance of this research sustains my dedication.
What advice would you offer to individuals aspiring to pursue a career as seabird scientists?
Despite the challenges and occasional discomfort, whether you are in the field or the lab, the importance of unraveling the complexities surrounding birds, biology, ecology, or the threats they face, will drive you forward. Indeed, the patriarchy that still dominates this scientific area may be the worst part. Yet, if faced with rejection, closed doors, attempts to undermine your worth, or even if someone tried to steal your research, fight back and do not give up. It might start as a hard journey but, with perseverance and commitment will be worth it. In the end, you'll meet good people, and the effort will shed light on understanding these amazing free beings.
Yasmina, wearing a black coat, stands on a black sand beach in the Azores. She is releasing a fledgling Cory's shearwater that was rescued after becoming disoriented by urban lights while leaving the nest the previous night.
Email:
Website:
Twitter:
@YazzRodrgz
Instagram: