The Nansen Indian Ocean voyage contains an international crew of 16 scientists hailing from 12 countries. We are also pleased to see aboard many female scientists. In an earlier post, we’ve already introduced you to Australian marine scientist Melody Puckridge. Now we are posing questions to Indonesian oceanographer Indah Lutfiyati.
How did you decide first decide to study marine sciences?
I live in Indonesia, known as biggest archipelagic country in the world, with 17,508 islands and fully 70% of its area covered by waters, both the Indian Ocean and Pacific Ocean. The water mass movement between these islands from both the oceans results in Indonesia's water having unique characteristics and being very rich in nutrients. This provides a good living environment for marine biota.
These facts fascinated and intrigued me as I was growing up, leading me to choose to study Oceanography in the Diponegoro University upon finishing high school.
During my training, I learned that oceanography is studied four areas: biology, physics, chemistry and geology of the ocean. I found biology and physics to be very interesting, which also led me to join the Marine Diving Club to gain a deeper understanding of the biology of coral reef ecosystems. Because of this, I chose to concentrate on ocean current modeling as my undergraduate thesis. In addition to attending classes, I also participated in several research institution projects to expand my knowledge and network. Afterwards, I earned my Masters from Bandung Institute of Technology, focusing my research interest on the physical modeling of biological aspect of tuna in the Indian Ocean.
The more I study about oceanography, the more I realize that there are many aspects of the oceans just waiting to be explored.
Now I am very proud to be part of an international group of ocean scientists, thanks to FAO and the Indonesian Ministry of Maritime Affairs providing me this possibility to work on the R/V Fridtjof Nansen.
Were you encouraged by teachers or mentors to pursue your area of study? Have you had female mentors?
I have done my Masters in Oceanography and of course I am keen to continue my degree. The reason why I am interested to continue the degree is because ocean covers about 70% of the world, but the people working on this field are not many when compared to those working in terrestrial sciences.
In addition, I’ve had a very good role model during my Masters. My academic supervisor, Ivonne M. Radjawane, PhD has given me an idea of how the passion she has for the oceans have given her an opportunity to not only working on what she love most, but also provide contribution to the science and development of Indonesian works on the ocean.
What do you enjoy most about your work?
Working on the field of oceanography is very interesting and fun. I liken it to putting together a big jigsaw puzzle. First, you must gain detail and comprehensive information about one issue in one area, just like you would with a piece of a puzzle. Then you link it to another piece to build a complete puzzle and gain a full understanding.
Ocean components are also connected to one another like a puzzle. You have to understand about sea currents, waves, ocean bathymetry, and temperatures in one place to understand why such a feature is existing in a regional level. It’s so much fun.
What would you advise young people who would like to pursue careers in marine research and marine biology?
The work on marine research and marine biology is getting more attention, with more universities open to this field of study, which means the demand for well-trained and skilled employees in this field is increasing. I would suggest that those interested in pursuing a career in this field, first identify what they like most. Marine biology is very broad issue, it would study about the ecology, biology, ecosystem, genetics, reproduction of marine biota, stock sustainability, and many other issues.
Once they define their interest, collect all information about it and widen the network to those who have similar interest to discuss and get advice from the experts in the field. After having a well established network, the next step is to be involved in projects as a volunteer or intern to gain more skills and knowledge as a preparation before entering the job market.
15/07/2015