Vicente Abedneko

Tell us about your work/ research. What kinds of things do you do?

My current research is about the effect of ocean acidification on spiny lobsters molting and survival over long term exposure. Like many spiny lobsters that are common to where I live in Palau. These marine food sources are a source of economy and food security for the local people of Palau. Understanding more about our marine life and the possible effect on future ocean acidification can help prepare people for future decline or sudden drop in catch. Using scientific methods we can manage, educate, and avert dependence on one single product the spiny lobster.
 

What sparked your initial interest in your career?

I have always lived near the ocean, so my goal was to have any career that can reflect to where I will live. The opportunities and guidance from professors and family have led me to where I am today. Oceanography.
 

Who influenced you or encouraged you the most?

There was two professors that have influenced my educational journey and through them I was able to succeed forward and continue my studies toward oceanography.
 

What element of your work/ study do you think is the most fascinating?

The most fascinating thing I have done lately is to witness sampling of coring sediments taken from 3,000 meters below the sea. Its my first time seeing something in the deep ocean seafloor.
 

How did you get involved with Ocean Exploration Trust? How did you become part of the expedition team?

I learned about this opportunity through local news and social media as OET and Palau International Coral Reef Center began the collaborations to plan this expedition. I am eager to bring the ocean knowledge gained in my education back to the community in Palau and this opportunity felt like a great chance to combine those passions.  

What other jobs led you to your current career?

Being an intern and working as a part time student under my professor lab has led me to pursue this career in a more focused way. I hope to graduate from my university and continue the work in Palau.  I have been part of several expedition teams aiming to learn more about the Western Pacific Ocean and its changes. 

What are your degrees and certifications?

Bachelor of Marine Science --Republic of China Naval Academy 2021
PhD underway now at National Sun Yat-sen University 

What are your hobbies?

I love hiking and swimming. I also like to cook and bake on my free time.
 

What advice would you give someone who wants to have a career like yours?

My advice would be that you need to start with a desire, a small goal, or determination to accomplish something, maybe for yourself or for a certain purpose. This has pushed me so much when I couldn't see where I was heading. Because my end goal was to come back to Palau and support my country and contribute to Palau nation building. This gave me the determination to keep staying and keep moving forward. The desire will make you more flexible, durable, open, and hopefully humble when it's all done and you have accomplished taking that career.