Take a break, we’re on Smoko! This week I sat down with Mia-May Grabovac, a passionate marine biology student at the University of Manitoba. Mia shares her fascinating journey into marine biology, from her childhood dream of working with sharks to her advanced studies and research in Arctic ecosystems.

Mia discusses her experiences as a research assistant, particularly her work aboard the Canadian Beaufort Sea Marine Ecosystem Assessment vessel. She provides insights into her study of zooplankton, emphasizing their crucial role in the marine food web and their sensitivity to changes in oceanographic conditions. Mia explains how she conducted abundance assessments and rapid zooplankton assessments (RZA) to gather real-time data on zooplankton populations, and how these methods contribute to understanding the health of Arctic marine ecosystems.

Mia highlights the importance of annual monitoring and the impact of climate change on the Arctic environment. She also talks about the challenges and rewards of conducting fieldwork on a research vessel, sharing her personal experiences and the valuable lessons she learned.

In addition to her current research, Mia discusses her future plans for graduate studies, focusing on meroplankton and the use of DNA and environmental DNA (eDNA) methodologies to identify species and understand community structures in the Canadian Beaufort Sea.

Mia also touches on the broader implications of her work for ocean conservation and the need for public awareness and support for protecting marine environments. She offers practical advice for aspiring scientists, emphasizing the importance of getting involved, asking questions, and keeping an open mind about career paths.

Join us for an inspiring and informative episode as Mia takes us on a journey through the wonders of marine biology, the challenges of Arctic research, and the critical importance of ocean conservation.

Mia-May Grabovac:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/mia-may-grabovac-325bb72b0/