Episode 26: Dr Lisa Ann Gershwin (jellyfish expert)

My guest interviewee in this episode is Dr Lisa Ann Gershwin. Lisa is a marine scientist, formerly with CSIRO, and also a former head of science at the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery in Launceston, whose areas of specialty include jellyfish and other pelagic invertebrates. She is world renowned for her vast knowledge of jellyfish in particular, for her many books and scientific papers on the groups, and for her discovery of a many, many new species throughout her career.  Among many things, you will hear Lisa talk of her role as the 'go to' expert on box jellyfish including the deadly Irukanji species and on the development of the "Jellyfish app". But Lisa is far more than just jellyfish. She has been and continues to be a strong voice and advocate for people with a mental illness, those with a disability, and for the homeless; where she draws on her personal experiences. You will hear Lisa relate how seeking a resolution to her depression led her to a tilt at being elected to the Tasmanian State parliament at the May elections and her plan to continue to pursue a role as a "smart, feisty, 'sciencey' parliamentarian. If you have heard Lisa speak before, you will know you are going to be well entertained while being well informed!