Lilian Elekwachi is a committed sustainable aquaculturist, dedicated to promoting and fostering a more sustainable future as a researcher, advocate, and entrepreneur. Currently pursuing a PhD in environmental sciences with a focus on sustainable aquaculture at the University of Massachusetts Boston, she already boasts a wealth of experience.
Education as a foundation
A bachelor’s degree in accountancy from the University of Nigeria Nsukka stood Lilian in good stead to establish a catfish farm and processing center in Nigeria, which she owned and ran until end-2002. Her passion for environmental sustainability eventually led her to pursue further studies. She obtained a master's degree in sustainable fisheries/aquaculture from the University of St. Andrews, fully funded by a UK Commonwealth Scholarship Commission award, followed by another master’s degree in environmental science from the University of Massachusetts.
Lilian’s educational pursuits culminated in her current Ph.D. program, where she is exploring innovative approaches to sustainable aquaculture. Her affiliation with MIT’s D-Lab underscores her commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration and cutting-edge research.
Professional trajectory
Lilian’s professional journey reflects her multifaceted approach to advancing sustainable aquaculture practices. She has held diverse roles, each contributing to her expertise in the field. As a fishery and aquaculture specialist at Harvard Medical School and Boston Children’s Hospital, she addresses critical issues at the intersection of health and sustainability.
Lilian’s previous roles include marine policy fellow at NOAA, teaching assistant at the University of Massachusetts Boston, and seaweed analyst/researcher at the National Sea Grant Law Center, further demonstrating her commitment to education, research, and practical application. Multiple publications in reputable journals and publications serve as a testament to Lilian’s expertise and influence.
Awards and recognitions
Lilian’s contributions have not gone unnoticed. In addition to receiving a US-Canada Program MMEG grant in 2020, which she says has provided crucial support for her ongoing doctoral work, she has been recognized with numerous other awards and honors, including the prestigious AAUW American Dissertation Fellowship, the UMass Boston Dissertation Award, and the John A. Knauss Marine Policy Fellowship award.
Through her research and advocacy, Lilian is making invaluable contributions to the field, paving the way for a more sustainable future for generations to come. As she nears the completion of her PhD, there is no doubt that her impact on sustainable aquaculture will be felt for years to come.
