Marine biologist Jasmin Graham shares her journey in academia, challenges faced by researchers of color, and the importance of inclusivity in shark science. She founded MIS to support underrepresented individuals and promote collaboration in the field.
Breaking traditional academia barriers by forging her own path in marine biology.
Advocating for diversity in shark science by dispelling misconceptions about shark species.
Deep dives
Jasmine Graham's Unique Path in Marine Biology
Jasmine Graham, the co-founder of Minorities in Shark Sciences, discovered her passion for marine biology through fishing with her dad in South Carolina. Her experience at a marine science camp sparked her interest in studying fish, leading her to pursue a career in marine biology. Despite facing barriers in academia, Graham chose to forge her own path outside the traditional academic route and is now bringing along young researchers of color to navigate similar paths.
Passion for Bonnet Head Sharks
Jasmine Graham's favorite shark, the bonnet head, holds a special place in her heart as the first shark she worked with during scientific surveys. Apart from their adorable appearance, bonnet heads are unique omnivorous animals, consuming a significant portion of seagrass in their diet. Graham's fascination with these sharks stems from their distinct characteristics and the opportunity to study their behavior as part of her research.
Diversity and Misconceptions About Sharks
Jasmine Graham highlights the misconceptions surrounding sharks, emphasizing that there are around 500 species of sharks with diverse shapes, sizes, and behaviors. She challenges the popular image of sharks as solely large predators like white sharks and highlights the variety of sharks, including small pocket sharks and massive whale sharks. Drawing parallels with how sharks and black people face misperceptions and discrimination, Graham aims to dispel stereotypes and raise awareness about the true nature of these beings.
Many kids dream of becoming marine biologists. But even folks who commit fully to studying life in the sea face a lot of barriers to entry in this competitive field—especially if they aren’t white and male.
Jasmin Graham has an unparalleled passion for sharks, but a few years ago she started to feel that the traditional path in academia wasn’t designed for her to succeed. Instead of giving up, she forged a path of her own. And now she’s bringing other young researchers of color along with her.