About Me
Aspiring Scientist. Lawyer. Feminist.
India is home incredible biodiversity that are endangered and endemic to the land. Having grown up in vicinity of forestlands in southern India, I was exposed to the importance of conserving nature at an early age. With developmental activities taking priority over wildlife conservation, I personally witnessed several endangered species struggle to survive. These formative years of my life inspired me to study environmental law and subsequently pursue a master's in environmental management!
This passion of wildlife conservation and drive have paved the way to countless opportunities, unique experiences and exceptional relationships both personally and professionally. If you’re interested in learning more about me, keep reading or get in touch.
Research
To provide a tangible showcase of my work, I’ve included a portfolio of my most recent Research. Take a moment to explore below, and reach out if you’re interested in learning more about what I have to offer.
MEM Capstone
Toxoplasmosis in Hawaiian Monk Seals: A Policy Evaluation
This project focuses on evaluating existing state and domestic policies regarding feral cat population to address the question of whether these policies on the MHI effectively mitigate the spread of toxoplasmosis in Hawaiian monk seal population. It will also analyse successful implementation of similar policies internationally and suggest potential management solutions in the conclusion.
Legal Project
The Final Stand, India
The Final Stand is an initiative undertaken by law students of Jindal Global School, determined to bring legislative change in India to reduce our carbon footprint and develop a social consciousness regarding climate change. Through highlighting localized issues and dispersing climate education in regional languages across the country, we aim to bring the conversation on climate to the forefront.
Relevance
Why is my research important?
Toxoplasmosis is an infection that is rapidly spreading from feral cats to the Hawaiian monk seal population. If left unchecked, this infection could potentially result in total eradication of these endangered seals.
On a broader scale, toxoplasmosis from feral cats is also infecting other marine mammals across North America and different Pacific islands including New Zealand and Australia. The policy evaluation done as part of my capstone could aid in implementing novel conservation practices on not just the main Hawaiian islands, but in other biodiversity-rich areas.
EDUCATION
My education has not only provided the foundation for the rest of my experiences, but has also made me a lifelong learner who is eager to gain more skills and knowledge. Take a look at my academics below.
Recognitions
EWC Graduate Degree Fellow
August 2019 - August 2021
The East-West Center Graduate Degree Fellowship provides master's and doctoral funding for graduate students from Asia, the Pacific, and the United States to participate in educational, cultural, residential community building, and leadership development programs at the East-West Center while pursuing graduate study at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa (UHM).
Toufiq and Ulrike Siddiqi Degree Scholars Awards
August 2019
Toufiq and Ulrike Siddiqi designed the Toufiq and Ulrike Siddiqi Degree Scholars Awards to help Degree Fellows who need initial assistance with travel and other start-up costs to be able to take advantage of the EWC grants. These awards are made annually for two to four Degree Fellows from South Asia.
Savitri Jindal Global Scholarship
August 2014 - May 2019
Scholarship based on merit to pursue legal education at Jindal Global Law School.
My Experience
Background & Expertise
Teaching Assistantship, Applied Calculus (Upcoming)
January - May 2020
I will be assisting Dr. Kaneshiro with applied calculus undergraduate level course. My responsibilities will include grading papers, teaching once a week and assisting students with any course-related queries.
Project Intern, Centre for Science and Environment
January 2019
Researched extensively on issues related to mining irregularities in India. Collected data on how imposition of fines on the mining industry are being utilized for community benefits, as per the court’s directions.
Legal Extern, Supreme Court of Hawai'i
July 2018 - July 2018
Assisted Justice Wilson with research on leading international environmental case laws. Initiated a project on drafting 'The Final Stand', a climate change legislation that seeks to address India's increasing carbon emissions. Drafted opinion pieces on upcoming field of climate change litigation in India and internationally.
Intern, Tamil Nadu Forest Academy
January 2018 - February 2018
Researched on laws relating to forests and the Indian Forest Act, 1927. Worked on the constraints of implementing forest policies in India. Researched on the biodiversity laws with respect to leading fauna issues in India
Researcher, National Green Tribunal
December 2017 - January 2017
Extensive research on issues related to mining irregularities in India. Collected data on how imposition of fines on the mining industry are being utilized for community benefits, as per the court’s directions. Ongoing analysis of whether setting up legislative amendments brought into the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act are being implemented effectively.
Researcher, Office of Wildlife Warden
December 2014 - February 2015
Researched on forest laws of Tamil Nadu. Experienced the administration of a forest range office. Researched case laws relating to illegal smuggling of live animals.
Volunteer, Blue Cross of India
December 2014 - January 2014
Read through cases on Animal Rights and drafted a report on Animal abuse under Art. 377 of the Constitution of India. Gained first-hand experience of rescuing wild and stray animals in the city.
My Skills
What I Do
Legal Research
Having authored, presented and published different legal papers, I have acquired key research skills in the process.
Music
I was trained in Hindustani classical music as a young girl and picked up the Harmonium as my instrument. Later, I transitioned to a fusion of Indian and western music, self-learnt the keyboard, basics of guitar and recently, the ukulele!
Leadership
I have successfully taken up leadership roles during my law school years. Having served as the President of the Animal Welfare society, President of the university's book club and founder of The Final Stand, I have over 5 years of leadership experience!
Creative Writing
Creative writing has been a passion that I have followed throughout my life in forms of poetry, short narratives, journals, articles for newspapers and personal blog posts!
My Interests and hobbies!
A collection of the things I love!
My interests outside of school include photography, travelling, spotting wildlife, learning about different cultures, hiking, volunteering at animal welfare NGOs, singing, reading and creative writing. So here are some of my favorite pictures!
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“In separateness lies the world’s greatest misery; in compassion lies the world’s true strength.”
- Buddha
Let’s Connect!
2500 Campus Rd, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA
vaibhavi(at)hawaii.edu
(808) 629-9486
