The Shark Research & Conservation Program (SRC) at the University of Miami conducts conservation-relevant shark research while inspiring scientific literacy and environmental engagement in K-12 youth through hands-on field research experiences. Every year, SRC brings hundreds of people, mostly school-children, out on research vessels to survey, sample, tag and study sharks. We especially try to serve communities that have been historically, and often currently, excluded from STEM opportunities.
FINS: Supporting Girls in STEM
The Females in Natural Sciences (F.I.N.S.) initiative, created by former SRC Intern and Fulbright Scholar Julia Whidden, was designed, developed, and implemented by women for girls. Its goal is to provide middle and high school girls with an exciting hands-on experience in marine science as shark research volunteers under the mentorship of female University of Miami faculty and students. During the day-long shark tagging expedition, participants are able to experience research in action and have the opportunity to engage with a women-led research team at various stages of their scientific careers, creating “near peer” mentorship opportunities. The F.I.N.S. experience is interactive, empowering, and rewarding, allowing girls to work with inspiring women role models.
