The more I learned about these remarkable creatures, the more I grew interested in their biology and complex ecosystem. In a defining moment, my curiosity extended into the world of forensics when I read an article published in Frontiers in Marine Science (March 25, 2025) that uncovered evidence of far-reaching ecosystem consequences following the disappearance of great white sharks from False Bay, South Africa. The research, conducted by scientists at the University of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric and Earth Science, delivered several key findings, including the decline in great white sharks… and it got me thinking. What if it’s more than the ecosystem that’s contributing to their decline? What other factors might there be? If humans are contributing to their decline, what’s being done to investigate? To read more about this fascinating study, see Diana Udel’s article here: Ecosystem disrupted following the disappearance of Great white sharks, new study finds. My curious mind guided me. In order to learn more about the world of forensics and the skills required, in the Summer of 2025, I secured an Advisory Internship with retired FBI Assistant Director and former agent, Mr. Tom Bush. He and I began regular meetings to introduce me to the world of Marine Forensic Investigators. Our August session was thrilling. I learned Forensics is Forensics whether it be on land or at sea. To help me understand the critical role DNA plays in any investigation, AD Bush and I discussed the type of evidence I would collect as a Marine Forensic Scientist. To illustrate his point, he cited an autopsy conducted to determine how a shark or whale had died. We speculated if it was by rifle or spear, it may have been poached and the evidence collected by forensics would be processed at a laboratory to see where humans may have purchased their ammunition and ways, I would look for similarities by researching other types of incidents, referencing specific times, and utilizing camera footage. Is the emerging science of Marine Forensics my new career path? Check back to see how our conversations develop! Check out my Marine Forensic page for questions that will help discover your inner detective! Building on my sessions with AD Bush, I was thrilled to be accepted to participate in the University of Florida’s GatorWISE: DNA Forensic Program in October! There, I conducted hands-on DNA analyses, examined biological evidence, and learned the protocols that ensure accuracy and integrity in investigations. This experience deepened my love of learning and strengthened my passion for combining forensic science with marine biology to better understand and protect ocean life. See pictures from the labs and visit my Marine Forensics page for journal entries! Watch ret. AD Bush on Netflix’s Catching Killers about the Atlanta Bombings.