Jasmin Graham is a marine biologist, science communicator, and passionate advocate for equity in STEM. As President and CEO of Minorities in Shark Sciences (MISS), she’s creating space for women of color to thrive in marine science through mentorship, education, and fieldwork. Whether she’s leading shark research on the water or helping future scientists find their voice, Jasmin’s work bridges conservation, social justice, and the power of community-driven science.
A Day in the Field
What does a typical day in your role look like?
I am the President and CEO of Minorities in Shark Sciences. My days vary, some days I’m at the computer answering emails, doing zoom or in-person meetings with potential donors, funders, partners, and program participants, writing grants, reviewing or writing manuscripts or doing data analysis. I would say this makes up about 60-70% of my job. Some days I’ll also go out and do outreach or education activities with schools or community groups and that makes up about 10-15% of my job. The remaining percentage of time I spend in the field collecting data about sharks mostly that means spending time on boats. I serve as the captain for our research so most of the time I’m driving the boat and coordinating the shark survey with the help of our Program Coordinator/1st mate.
The Path to Marine Biology
I have a B.S. In Marine Biology, a B.A. in Spanish and a MSc. in Biological Sciences. I first started doing shark research the summer after my freshman year of college. Most of my lab and field experience has come from working as an undergraduate researcher, graduate school and internships. Other aspects of my career include writing and I was part of a creative writing club as a kid which I feel like really strengthened my writing. I also do a lot of theatre as a hobby/passion and have been doing that since I was a kid so that’s where I got a lot of my oral communication skills from. I learned about fishing and boating from my dad who is an avid outdoorsmen/fishermen.
I love asking questions and trying to figure out the answer which is the core of science and that’s still what keeps me excited today.
Resting and setting boundaries. You can’t pour from an empty cup.
Publishing a book.
The Power of Science and Community
What does the power of science and community mean to you?
Our motto at MISS is “diversity in scientists leads to diversity in thought, which leads to innovation.” That’s what community is. It’s all of us coming together from different backgrounds wanting to make a difference. We all have such different ideas about how we can make the world a better place, and when we collectively utilize all those ideas to create change, that’s when innovation happens. It’s powerful.
To a Future Scientist Just Starting Out
What advice would you give to someone just starting out in your field?
Keep reminding yourself of your accomplishments thus far. Look back at how far you have already come! Don’t be afraid to try new things and always remember that learning is something that you will continue to do.
What message would you share with future scientists about the power they hold to make a difference?
Interestingly enough, sharks can help us see the world in a different way. They are such misunderstood animals and they can shift our entire narratives. Future scientists can take a lesson from them. They should know that their work is valuable and it can also help shift perspectives and change minds. Their insight, their opinion and their voices matter.
What would you tell your younger self?
I would say that your curiosity helped pave the way for where you are right now. Never stop wondering about the world around you, continue fighting those in your community and keep asking questions!
