About Me

My name is Teah (she/her). I am a PhD student at Deakin University in the Movement, Ecology, & Management of Elasmobranchs (MEME) Lab. I recently completed my Master of Science degree at the University of Windsor in the Hussey Lab.

My research interests include stable isotopes, food web dynamics, and movement behaviours. Specifically, I aim to better understand the ecological role of marine predators to inform ecosystem and fisheries management.

My PhD research is investigating the impact of fisheries on the trophodynamics of deep-sea sharks.

My master's thesis used an archived collection of vertebrae to investigate the population structure, ecological role, and life history of Australian white sharks using stable isotope analysis. Prior to starting my MSc, I completed my undergraduate degree in Biology (Spring 2021), where my honours thesis looked at the morphology of anadromous Arctic char from Ulukhaktok, NT.

I have always loved working with animals and spending time outside. I volunteered at wildlife rehabilitation centres, and veterinarian clinics throughout high school. I worked with several local species (e.g. racoons, opossums, weasels, foxes), and was able to give presentations to the public about ongoing rehabilitation efforts. These hands on experiences led me to the decision to pursue a career in wildlife conservation.

My interest in marine science started as an undergraduate volunteer in Dr. Nigel Hussey's lab at the University of Windsor, where I was introduced to research on sharks and fishes. This is where I developed my love for the ocean, and I have been studying it ever since! I enjoy connecting with communities to answer research questions and to share science.

One of my favourite field work trips was to the Arctic to work with Inuit fishers and children to tag Greenland Halibut through the ice. I recently lived on Big Tancook Island in Nova Scotia to help set up the Tancook Islands Marine Field Station and worked alongside an amazing community of lobster fishers.

Outside of research I love to scuba dive, rock climb, and read books. My newest hobby is underwater photography.