2023 Gregory D. Memorial One Health Scholarship Awarded

An annual $5,000 USD Dr. Gregory D. Bossart Memorial One Health Scholarship, funded by the Georgia Aquarium (Atlanta, Georgia, USA) and administered by the One Health Commission (Apex, North Carolina, USA) is presented to a graduate student in wildlife biology, epidemiology, veterinary, medical, public health, basic or social sciences or other program focusing on the interconnection between people, animals, plants, and their shared environment using a One Health framework. The scholarship is in memory of Dr. Greg Bossart, V.M.D., Ph.D., a highly respected veterinarian, pathologist, and conservationist committed to advancing the understanding of marine mammals as sentinels of ocean and human health. Dr. Bossart was a dedicated proponent of the One Health concept and the approach was a prominent theme in his career. This year's winner, Mehak Hafeez, is a PhD Student at the SKUAST-Kashmir University in Srinagar, Jamu and Kashmir, India. Her project, Sensor-Based Detection of Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) in Dal Lake, Kashmir: Advancing One Health through Participatory Surveillance, will develop and utilize sensor-based technologies for the early detection and monitoring of HABs. By leveraging interdisciplinary collaboration, innovative sensor technologies, and active involvement of the local Kashmiri community, this project will address the urgent need for effective monitoring and management of HABs in Dal Lake, with a focus on public health, ecosystem preservation, and participatory engagement. Its implementation will have a potential impact on the health and well-being of the local communities residing within and around the lake and the lake ecosystem.