Here at Beneath the Waves we wanted to bring you the insider scoop on the superstars of Shark Week. Thus, we elicited the help of five of our most favorite sharky scientists. Today we caught up with Dr. Gregory Skomal, a Senior Marine Fisheries Scientist at MA Marine Fisheries to tell us a bit about the shark science he is involved in, how he got where he is today, and what he thinks we can do to move shark conservation forward.
 

 
Briefly can you describe the focus of your research and the species you work on?
 
My research centers on the use of advanced technology to study the ecology, life history, and physiology of elasmobranchs (sharks and rays). I have worked on multiple species over the last 32 years, but my most recent work focuses on white sharks in the western North Atlantic.
 
In your opinion, how can people help save sharks?
 
Shark conservation comes with an educated public. I recommend that people dispel the myths about sharks and stress the important role that sharks play in the marine ecosystem.
 
How did you get involved in shark research and what advice would you give those interested in studying them?
 
I’ve had an interest in sharks since I was very young, making every effort to become a marine biologist since high school. For those with similar interests, I suggest seeking good undergraduate and graduate level degrees in biology. When doing so, work hard, network with other biologist through groups like the American Elasmobranch Society, and don’t hesitate to volunteer for researchers conducting interesting work.
 

HAPPY SHARK WEEK!