Research Fellowship

Inaugural Research Fellowship

We proudly introduce Leanne Nguyen (right) and Ella Hutchinson (left) as the recipients of our Inaugural Research Fellowships.

Without Leanne and Ella’s teamwork, we would not have uncovered the evidence for the third generation of Port Phillip common dolphins and their movement between Port Phillip and the Bass Coast. They also worked on the Victorian Humpback Whale Fluke ID catalogue.

Our experiment with the Fellowships has been so successful that Leanne’s position is extended to the end of June 2023. Ella is now completing her Honours Degree at Monash University (but still volunteers when she can).

As a nine-year-old (below), Leanne dreamed of becoming a Marine Scientist. Her dream has come true – and more.

The Fellowship program also enabled Leanne and Ella to become certified to conduct aerial surveys for whales in Bass Strait with our partner organization Fathom Pacific (a Marine Environmental Consultant). These surveys are crucial to informing the approvals of energy projects in Bass Strait.

Our dream is to appoint more fellows who will become an integral part of the future of the Institute.

The synergy between our programs becomes clear when you realise that both Leanne and Ella were influenced by our i sea, i care Ambassador Program when they were at school. They were both interns and volunteers and are now role models for the next generation of Ambassadors and interns.

Gifts from our supporters made our Research Fellowship Program possible – we receive no regular government support.

Your gift to the ‘Future Generations’ Appeal will support us in providing a greater number of life-changing experiences for another generation of future scientists.

We cherish your support and commit to achieving the most significant impact for dolphins, whales, and the community.

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