Abigail Parker
She/Her
I am bi and I am a biologist and PhD candidate.//
Hello! I’m Abi, I’m originally from the UK but now live in Melbourne, Australia, where I am pursuing my PhD. I am researching the presence and effects of chemical pollutants on turtles in Australia. I am a complete turtle nerd, I love everything and anything about them and would love to end up working in conservation after my PhD. I adore the ocean, I’m a Marine Biologist by training but I have also expanded into freshwater ecology during my PhD. It’s probably no surprise that outside my research I love anything on or in the water: surfing, snorkelling, sea swimming and scuba! I also enjoy pole fitness, hiking and making nature-inspired polymer clay earrings! Outside of research, I’m also very passionate about outreach and education. My LGBTQIA+ journey is very recent, I came out as bisexual in the second year of my PhD and have received nothing but love and support from my peers. I know this isn’t the case for everyone and I want to raise awareness of the importance of creating a safe, supportive and inclusive environment for LGBTQIA+ scientists. Science is for everyone! I always love to connect with others in the community – feel free to reach out!