The Human Side of Ocean Science

This episodes guest is Dr. Brianna Le Busque — a marine social scientist and environmental psychologist whose research explores the human side of marine science. As Bri likes to joke, while many marine scientists study sharks or whales, she studies the most complicated species of all: people.Her work focuses on how humans think and feel about the ocean, particularly fear of sharks, ocean anxiety, conservation behaviour, and the psychological relationship people have with marine environments. Her research has explored how surfers perceive shark risk, the role media plays in shaping fear of sharks, how children develop fears of sharks, and whether shark diving experiences can change public attitudes.Alongside this, Bri works extensively in the Ocean Literacy space — helping improve understanding of both humanity’s impact on the ocean and the ocean’s impact on us. Her current projects include research into eco-anxiety linked to harmful algal blooms, the use of whales as flagship conservation species, oyster tourism, and broader fears associated with the ocean.Dr. Le Busque is also a Senior Lecturer and Program Director in Environmental Science at Adelaide University.This month’s interviews with Australian marine scientists are being conducted to celebrate National Science Week. National Science Week is one of the world’s oldest and largest science festivals, with around 3 million people participating in more than 2,500 events across Australia each year. This year it runs from 15–23 August. If you live in Australia, check out scienceweek.net.au to find an event near you. There are also a range of online events that can be accessed internationally, including this podcast.