Fiona-Elaine Strasser
PhD student
My research centers around understanding the complex relationships between marine ecosystems and the species that inhabit them, particularly humpback whales. By examining how environmental factors and foraging behaviors influence the health and body condition of humpback whales, I aim to contribute to the broader field of marine conservation. My PhD project investigates the impact of ocean conditions on humpback whales in Southeast Alaska, including estimating how much prey, such as krill and herring, these whales consume. By analyzing changes in whale body condition, coupled with population abundance data and modeling diet composition, I hope to provide insights into their role in the ecosystem and how climate change may be impacting their health. I am passionate about applying science to inform marine policy and ensuring that young marine researchers have a voice in shaping the future of ocean conservation.
email: festra@hawaii.edu
Biography:
Fiona is a PhD student in the Marine Biology Graduate Program at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa working with the Marine Mammal Research Program (MMRP) and collaborating closely with the Alaska Whale Foundation (AWF).
Growing up near the German Alps, far from the ocean, Fiona sought opportunities around the world to study marine biology. She pursued a Bachelor's degree in Biology in Austria, complemented by exchange semesters in South Africa and Australia, where she developed a deeper understanding of marine ecosystems. Building on these experiences, she completed a Master’s degree in Marine Biology through an international program that involved studies at universities across Europe, including Portugal, Italy, and France.
After graduation, Fiona moved to the Azores Islands (Portugal) for an internship with the Whale Lab - Cetacean Ecology Group at the Institute of Marine Research, University of Azores. This experience introduced her to behavioral cetacean research, with a focus on sperm whales. During this time, she also earned her Dive Master certification and gained hands-on experience as a whale-watching and dive guide, where she discovered a strong passion for science communication. This experience ultimately inspired her to work as a polar expedition guide in both Arctic and Antarctic environments later on.
In parallel with her work in the Azores, Fiona took on the role as assistant to project management for the EU-funded EuroSea project, which focused on enhancing the sustainability of ocean observing, forecasting, and monitoring systems across Europe and beyond, while engaging the next generation of stakeholders. For two years she also served as Germany’s All-Atlantic Youth Ambassador, representing Early Career Ocean Professionals at international political events. Fiona has contributed to high-level conferences through speeches, interviews, and moderating sessions at prominent events such as the UN Ocean Decade's high-level kickoff in 2021 and the UN Ocean Decade conference in Barcelona in 2024. She remains committed to advocating for the inclusion of young marine scientists in policy discussions.
Publications
coming soon!
follow: