Asha de Vos’ journey from deck hand to marine science leader
Summary
Dr. Asha DeVos recounts her 2003 discovery of a non-migrating blue whale population in Sri Lanka, which launched her career as the country’s first PhD in marine mammal research. She discusses overcoming "parachute science" dynamics and patriarchal societal pressures to establish local scientific infrastructure. Now leading Ocean Swell, DeVos reflects on inspiring the next generation of Sri Lankan ocean champions and shifting public perception of marine biology.
Topics discussed
Sponsors and show introduction
Introduction to Dr. Asha DeVos and her discovery
The unexpected sighting of blue whales in Sri Lanka
Evidence of feeding: the red whale poop
Launching a career and rejecting parachute science
Break and sponsor messages
The importance of local leadership in research
Building a research program from scratch
Overcoming gender bias and societal criticism
The growth of marine biology in Sri Lanka
Credits and closing sponsor message
Listen ad-free on Castria