I’m incredibly excited to share that I’ve been selected to present my research, “DDT and PCB Accumulation in Southern California Cetaceans,” as a poster at the Society for Marine Mammalogy (SMM) 2026 Conference in Puerto Rico, under the “One Health” section in. This section highlights the powerful connection between environmental, animal, and human health.

The SMM is a globally recognized organization focused on the research and conservation of marine mammals. Its conference brings together scientists from around the world to share findings and address key issues impacting ocean and animal health.

My research focuses on the long-term impacts of legacy pollutants such as DDTs and PCBs in the Southern California Bight. Even decades after being banned, these toxic, forever chemicals remain in the ocean due to their persistence, continuing to accumulate in marine food webs. As top predators, whales and dolphins (cetaceans) are especially vulnerable, storing these contaminants in their blubber, where they can cause serious health effects such as endocrine disruption and reproductive impairment.

Through my work, I analyzed blubber samples from various stranded cetaceans along Los Angeles County, comparing contaminant levels across species, diets, and life stages. My findings show that organochlorine concentrations remain elevated, particularly in resident species and reproductively mature individuals, highlighting the ongoing impact of historical pollution in our coastal ecosystems.

Presenting this research at SMM2026 is a huge milestone for me. It’s an opportunity to contribute to important conversations about ocean health, learn from leading scientists, and grow as an early-career marine mammal researcher. However, the cost of attending, including airfare and hotel accommodations, is a significant financial challenge.

I’m seeking support to make this opportunity possible and hope to raise the necessary funds by June 1st, 2026. Any donation, no matter the size, will go directly toward travel, food, and lodging expenses and help me share this research on an international stage. Your support not only helps me attend this conference but also contributes to raising awareness about the lasting impacts of legacy contaminants on marine mammals and the health of our planet.

Thank you so much for your support and for being a part of this journey!