Next up in our interview series for International Day of Women & Girls in Science is the fantastic Stefana Roberts, a Coral Aquarist for our non-profit partner the Perry Institute for Marine Sciences (PIMS).

1. What inspired you to pursue a career in science, and specifically in your specialty?

Growing up on the islands of The Bahamas, I was surrounded by water! It was simply a part of life. From the time I could walk, I remember my father carrying my siblings and me along the beach, and those early memories sparked a deep connection to the ocean. I couldn’t even swim, but I was in the water trying my best to stay afloat. Almost every summer I was gifted a snorkel set, and I made full use of it, exploring the underwater world whenever I could. Being at the beach brought a sense of calm and curiosity. It was where I felt most at ease. That curiosity grew into a desire to understand and protect the fascinating marine ecosystems around me, ultimately inspiring me to pursue a career in science and specialize in this field.

2. Can you share a memorable experience from your research or an expedition that shaped your perspective on ocean conservation?

One of the most memorable and perspective-shaping experiences for me is simply going on dive trips today. Each dive reinforces how urgently coral reefs need our attention. Areas that were once vibrant and full of fish and marine life are now often barren landscapes, reefs are reduced to skeletons. I frequently encounter large elkhorn corals stretching on for meters with little to no living tissue, ecosystems that may never fully recover to their original state. Ecosystems that I wish I was fortunate enough to see before such tragedies from diseases and coral bleaching occurred. Seeing this firsthand has deeply influenced my commitment to ocean conservation. It motivates me to educate both locals and visitors about the importance of coral reefs and the many benefits they provide, from supporting biodiversity to protecting our coastlines. Conservation doesn’t always require grand gestures—sometimes it’s as simple as picking up trash at the beach instead of stepping over it, or choosing reef-safer sunscreen. What matters most is that we start somewhere, with the mindset that ocean conservation should be a priority, not an inconvenience.

3. What advice do you have for young girls and women interested in pursuing careers in science, especially those who love the ocean?

I would encourage young girls and women to work hard and pursue what they truly love. When you are passionate about your work, it no longer feels like a chore—it becomes something you genuinely enjoy. Stay driven, remain curious, and continue building relationships with others in the field. Even simple conversations about what you do and what excites you can open doors you never imagined possible. Most importantly, believe that you belong in science and that your voice and perspective are valuable.

4. What is your vision for the future of marine science, and how can we all contribute to preserving our oceans?

My vision for the future of marine science begins at home, right here in The Bahamas. I hope to see more opportunities created for local students who are passionate about pursuing careers in marine science. Education should start from the very beginning, where from the first day of school, boys and girls are taught the importance of the ocean and understand that it provides far more than just jobs. Our oceans protect us in countless ways, from safeguarding our coastlines to sustaining our communities, and this understanding should be rooted in EVERYDAY conversations and basic knowledge. We can all contribute by learning, sharing that knowledge, and making conscious choices that support ocean health. When ocean conservation becomes part of our culture and daily lives, we build a future where both marine science and our oceans can truly thrive.

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