Overcoming Waves of Challenges: Experiences of BIPOC Shark Scientists in the Global South

The lack of gender, ethnic, and racial diversity in shark and ray research remains a significant concern. Additionally, "parachute" or "helicopter" science, where researchers from wealthier nations conduct studies in developing countries without engaging local scientists, remains widespread. In response, researchers from three Global South countries partnered with Global North peers to establish ICONIC Oceans, an international collaboration guided by Integrated, Coordinated, Open, Networked (ICON) principles. Alongside artisanal fishers, researchers combined biometric and biological data from fishing landings with fisher interviews, citizen science, and direct participation in fishing operations-both at sea and on the beach-in Brazil, India, and Sri Lanka. Each represented country had its own Field Research Lead. Despite sociocultural differences across Asia and South America, researchers faced similar challenges, including sexism, hazardous working conditions, permitting difficulties, and limited or nonexistent infrastructure. Furthermore, some foreign and financially dominant local scientists engage in unethical research practices, exploiting early career researchers and students while fostering unfair competition. Such practices undermine trust and disrupt established collaborations. They can also disrupt the trust and space conquered. Addressing these systemic issues is essential to fostering ethical, equitable, and collaborative marine science. Some of the proposed solutions identified through the first cohort of ICONIC Oceans were clear protocols adapted to resources available to local researchers, shipping/customs guidelines, mentorship, letters of support/collaboration from research partners and contingency timelines for delays.