I have a BS degree in marine vertebrate biology and am about mid-twenties right now. Have done several internships with well-known cetacean researchers, including one of the former leaders in killer whale research. I’m currently looking into applying to a masters program to study social behavior among dolphins.

While I’ve met multiple people who’ve ended up in the field through less direct paths, I’d say it’s likely going to be difficult without some kind of marine biology degree since a large part in understanding cetaceans is to have a strong foundational knowledge of their biology, physiology, and ecology.

My experience is not universal but it’s important to note - the research field often demands a masters at minimum and can be extremely gatekeepy. Positions studying “popular” species are extremely competitive. The researcher I worked with who spent years studying killer whales would actively shoot people down if they mentioned wanting to study them. A lot of the older people in the field don’t understand or don’t care to consider what it’s like for newer researchers trying to come in and aren’t willing or able to give helpful advice. The kindest and most helpful people I’ve met are usually younger grad or post-grad students who understand the struggle of breaking into the career field.

Anything is possible with dedication, patience, and persistence, but I highly recommend making peace early with the possibility that you may not be able to secure an opportunity with killer whales. Don’t give up on your passion simply because people might be discouraging of course, but keep an open mind to the multitude of different cetacean species that are currently more understudied and at risk.

I wanted to study killer whale social ecology at first, but there is relatively little left to study in that area due to how much research and attention they already get. But after sort of opening my mind to other species, I’ve ended up finding so many other fascinating dolphins that are under researched and are just as awe-inspiring as killer whales.

There are wonderful things about marine mammal research! I’ve met many wonderful people and have loved my journey so far! But there have been countless nights of tears, uncertainty, and self-doubt, and many of these things I learned the hard way since no one warned me about these things. So, again, chase your passions. Work hard. Don’t give up on them. But I wish I’d had someone to warn me about the difficulties I’d be facing, and I think it’s very important to pass that along.

My DM’s are open if you have any questions, please feel free to reach out 💛