Haleh Mawson, USA
ACES Year 2021-2023/Cohort 7
Tell us a little bit about where you are now after graduating from the ACES programme?
I work as a research scientist in marine ecology, leading a project on pest control in Pacific oyster farms in Washington State, USA. As of 2024, I’m applying to PhDs in sustainable aquaculture.
How was your ACES experience and how did it contribute to
your personal and professional development in the aquaculture industry?
My great interest is how humanity can use nearshore habitats to help society without hurting the wildlife with which we share the seas. Sustainable aquaculture is vital to keep the world fed, but it isn’t necessarily practiced the same way in every country. ACES shows you the commonalities across different ecosystems and cultures, and shows you the local flavors or specialties that make aquaculture work (or not work) in each region.
Best part about being an ACES student?
Making friends from around the world and learning about people’s home countries. I still miss the dinner parties we’d have. Home-cooked meals from so many different countries!
Most challenging part of the ACES programme?
Applying for new visas is sometimes rough, just because there are so many little steps and so much paperwork. It’s worth it for the knowledge you gain from the programme and from living in new countries, though.
Any advice for current and prospective ACES students?
You have a unique chance to meet and learn from experts in aquaculture and marine research from all over the world, and you should do your best to take advantage of it. Most people have to rely on quick meetings at conferences to make international connections, but ACES students get to work with researchers in at least three different countries over the course of two years.
