Carla Daniela Fiorito

I am a marine mammal veterinarian and researcher at the Center for the Study of Marine Systems (CESIMAR) - National Council of Scientific and Technical Research (CONICET) in Puerto Madryn, Argentina.
Growing up in Patagonia, I was always fascinated by dolphins and whales. At just five years old, I dreamed of becoming a "whale vet"—and I made it happen!
In 2007, I earned my veterinary degree from the Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Buenos Aires. Shortly after, I moved to Puerto Madryn to work with marine mammals, where I pursued my PhD and postdoctoral research focusing on Southern Right Whale skin diseases.
Since 2011, I have been a dedicated volunteer with the Chubut Coastal Wildlife Network, responding to marine mammal strandings and conducting necropsies.
My research centres on marine mammal infectious diseases and pathogens, particularly zoonotic ones, due to their potential impact on public health. Using a multidisciplinary approach that combines histology, pathology, and molecular biology, I strive to better characterize disease conditions affecting marine mammals in Patagonia.
I am deeply passionate about my work, whether it’s long hours at the microscope or heading into the field for hands-on research. When you work with marine mammals, every day brings a new challenge, and I embrace each one with passion and dedication.

Lucas Federico Arce

I am a biologist from the Universidad Nacional de la Patagonia San Juan Bosco, currently pursuing a PhD in Biology at the University of Buenos Aires in the Department of Physiology and Molecular Biology. My passion for the unique and diverse natural world of Patagonia has driven me since my teenage years, and I am deeply committed to advancing research and conservation efforts in this region.

Throughout my career, I have come to understand that a healthier planet is impossible without addressing the health of wildlife, and it was during my specialization in marine mammals that I discovered the crucial role these animals play. As sentinels of the conservation status of aquatic ecosystems, sea lions are particularly fascinating to study—given their proximity to humans and vulnerability to environmental changes.

During my training, I had the privilege of working with Gerardo Suzán Aspiri's research group in Mexico, where I gained essential fieldwork skills in disease ecology. At the University of Buenos Aires, I honed my expertise in molecular biology and bioinformatics, gaining valuable insights into population genetics and evolutionary contexts. This knowledge has provided a deeper understanding of the origins and potential spread of infectious agents in wildlife.

Now, I am living my long-awaited dream of applying these skills and knowledge to the conservation and study of the sea lions of Patagonia, a cause that is close to my heart.

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Pablo Meyer

I am a veterinarian who graduated from the Faculty of Veterinary Sciences at the University of Buenos Aires in 1986. As a professor at this institution and a specialist in small animal surgery, I have dedicated my career to both education and practice.

Since 2000, I have spent three months each year working in the Peninsula Valdés protected natural area in Chubut, Argentina. Over the years, I have collaborated on orca photo-identification projects, participated in southern right whale sampling, and conducted necropsies on various marine mammal species. Currently, I lead a project focused on sea lion necropsies at Punta Norte, where my surgical expertise has enhanced the efficiency and precision of post-mortem examinations.

The ocean, its wildlife, and marine ecology have always been my passion. I actively share my experiences to raise awareness about conservation and the protection of Argentina’s natural areas. In addition to my work as a veterinarian and researcher, I am an avid nature photographer. I use my images in graduate and postgraduate classes, as well as on social media, to inspire students and the general public to care for the oceans.