Edin Whitehead
she/her
Research Assistant & Project Coordinator
Univeristy of Auckland, Northern New Zealand Seabird Trust
Discipline
Behaviour, Conservation, Physiology, Project Management, Public/Community Engagement, Migration & Movement Ecology, Science Communication
Regional Focus
Aotearoa New Zealand
Years Active
6-10 years
Species Focus
Albatrosses (Diomedeidae), Gulls and Terns (Laridae), Diving Petrels (Pelecanoididae), Petrels and Shearwaters (Procellariidae), Storm-Petrels (Hydrobatidae & Oceanitidae)
Tell us about your work with seabirds.
I undertake research on climate resilience and adaptation in petrels and shearwaters, looking at ecophysioloigcal and behavioural metrics and how they relate to environmental change. I coordinate research, conservation, and advocacy projects for the Northern New Zealand Seabird Trust. During the summer field season I work on contracts on offshore islands or at-sea, depending on what gets funded in any given year!
What advice would you offer to individuals aspiring to pursue a career as seabird scientists?
I stand by the saying 'Whether it's an ordeal or an adventure depends on your attitude'. Flexibility and determination are what will make your career work for you, and will help you find your niche.