Arianna Torello | Ph.D. Student

I am keenly fascinated by global change ecology and the many relationships that exist within and throughout marine ecosystems. As part of a collaborative NSF Long-Term Ecological Research (LTER) project based in the Western Antarctic Peninsula at Palmer Station, my work uses biotelemetry and bioacoustic techniques to understand the behavioral and acoustic ecology of baleen whales in the region, and how these characteristics are changing with the perturbations that are coming with a rapidly changing climate.

Beyond my immediate goal of completing my doctoral degree, my overarching goal as a scientist and human being is to further my education in a way that provides me with the tools to effectively share my knowledge and fervor for marine mammal ecology to a broader audience. I am passionate about learning, and congruently passionate about sharing what I learn and creating opportunities for others to become involved in and excited about conservation research – particularly those from communities that have been historically excluded in the STEM fields, including students of color, women, and students who identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ community. As a queer, non-binary person, I feel a strong sense of urgency to solidify space in academia that recognizes, respects, and truly celebrates our individualities and uniqueness in a community-driven setting. I am committed to utilizing my own privileges in life and academia to afford minoritized students the pathway into STEM they have always deserved and had a right to but have not always had access or been justly supported.