Yamini Srikanth

Junior Research Fellow – LTEO

Qualifications:

BSc., B Ed. (Life Sciences), Azim Premji University, 2018-2022

MSc., Wildlife Biology and Conservation, National Centre for Biological Sciences (NCBS-TIFR)

Profile: Yams is a marine researcher, educator and science communicator. They are fascinated by all things reef, particularly the intricate patterns and processes that maintain the functioning of coral reefs, and the astonishing biodiversity that both drives and results from these patterns and processes. Their Master’s dissertation (from NCBS-TIFR) focused on the ecological, economic and social aspects of the cultivation of a non-native seaweed. The experience gave Yams a lasting interest in herbivorous fish and how herbivory, coral and algae are tied together in a labyrinthine web. At Dakshin, they are working on the long-term ecological monitoring of coral reefs.

Prior to the MSc., they’ve worked in elasmobranch fisheries and long-term nutrient monitoring of coastal ecosystems. In addition to their work in marine systems, they are also a longtime educator. Yams recently taught “Theatre and Environmental Justice” at the National Law School of India University as visiting faculty, and has been conducting theatre and environmental justice workshops for five years. This interest in education has translated into a longtime commitment for science communication.

When not hunched in front of their laptop, Yams can be found playing with their dogs, baking something unnecessary, travelling or roaming outside closer to home.

Publications:

Srikanth, Y. (2024, January 23). Rucha Karkarey, Professional Fish Stalker. Smore Science.
Srikanth, Y. (2025a, February 1). Catch ‘em young: Why early impressions of science matter. Rukhmabai Initiatives.
Srikanth, Y. (2025b, February 27). For me, it was never an issue of what to do. Everything was fascinating. Rukhmabai Initiatives.
Srikanth, Y. (2022, April 12). Sanctu-Wary: Protecting wildlife beyond protected areas. Center for International Policy, 1.