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PhD Candidate – University of Haifa
investigating the impact of social structures on sperm whale communication under Project CETI
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About myself
I fell in love with the sea at a very young age, ever since I couldn't understood why the Little Mermaid would give everything up to walk on land, when all I ever wanted was a set of fins. I'm fascinated by the deep sea and the secrets it holds — and with it, a deep passion for the world of deep-diving cetaceans, especially sperm whales.
Although sperm whales are found across the globe, I consider myself a true Mediterranean fan. The Mediterranean Sea holds a special place in my heart, and even though it's the busiest and most polluted sea in the world — or perhaps because of that — I'm deeply committed to protecting it and the species that call it home.
My dream is to work with and for the deep-diving cetaceans of the eastern Mediterranean, bringing together both scientific collaborations and public engagement to study and conserve these remarkable animals. I believe our greatest strength as scientists lies in working together and sharing knowledge to better understand and protect the natural world — all while maintaining a healthy work-life balance and appreciating the beauty that surrounds us.
Studies & Qualifications
- BSc in Marine BiologyBen-Gurion University of the Negev · 2015–2018
- Marine Mammal CourseDalhousie University · 2018
- MSc in Marine BiologyUniversity of Haifa · 2019–2021Magna Cum Laude, Dean's Excellence Award. Thesis: Population Dynamics of Common and Bottlenose Dolphins along the Israeli Coast
- PhD CandidateUniversity of Haifa · Presentinvestigating the impact of social structures on sperm whale communication under Project CETI
One of my first exciting experiences as a marine biologist was being selected for a full scholarship to the Marine Mammal course at Dalhousie University in Halifax, Canada. This renowned two-week course is led by one of the most established marine mammal science labs in the world, headed by Prof. Hal Whitehead. After completing the course, I decided to change my plans and forgo traveling to western Canada so I could stay and volunteer in the lab, contributing to data processing for the Dominica Sperm Whale Project. That decision turned out to be one of the best I've ever made — it eventually led me to pursue my PhD with this incredible project.
Vision
My vision is to bridge science and society. I believe that even the most innovative research is more powerful when it's accessible and meaningful to the public. I aim to promote the conservation of the Eastern Mediterranean Sea by working side by side with fellow scientists and connecting local communities to the incredible marine life it holds and showing how human presence shapes this environment. I'm especially passionate about introducing people to the acoustic world of cetaceans — a world rich in communication, language, and culture. It may not be easily captured in a photograph, but once understood, it's truly captivating. I'm completely hooked — are you?
Want to join my vision?
I believe the world of marine mammals and their fascinating vocalizations should be accessible to the curious public through media — including videos, posts, and of course, sound clips. I try to share this passion on my personal social media, and you're welcome to follow along. Tips, questions, or DMs are always welcome!