Vishal Kennedy

Passionate and dedicated Ph.D. student deeply committed to the intersection of policy making and conservation biology. Proven track record in advanced research methodologies and fieldwork, coupled with expertise in grant writing and environmental policy analysis. Seeking an internship opportunity to leverage academic rigor and practical skills in crafting effective conservation policies and driving sustainable solutions. Eager to contribute to impactful projects that address pressing environmental challenges and advance biodiversity conservation efforts.

• Served as General Secretary of the Student Affairs Council (SAC) overseeing student committees and outreach initiatives.
• Organized 'WeDigBio' outreach efforts with Tenn Herbarium, contributing to digitizing biodiversity specimens worldwide.
• Led fieldwork for Olive Ridley Turtle conservation along the coasts of Bay of Bengal.
• Volunteered for 'Ek Pehal' - tutoring underprivileged students on 'Basic Science & Hygiene' to empower and uplift their communities.
• Participated in public education initiatives such as Darwin’s Day lectures at the McClung Museum of Natural History & Culture.

• Policy Memo Contest Winner, Mississippi River Basin Conservation (2023): Awarded $1000 prize and opportunity to present in front of policy makers and press by the National Wildlife Federation.
  
• The Breedlove Dennis Award, The University of Tennessee - Herbarium: Received $1500 prize for exceptional achievements and contributions to herbarium research, covering field and research expenses.
  
• DST (Department of Science & Technology) Fellowship, Government of India: Recognized as one of the top 1% science students nationally, awarded for pursuing undergraduate studies at India's premier institute.
  Benefits included tuition waiver, monthly stipend, and travel allowances.
  
• Innovation in Science Pursuit for Inspired Research Fellowship, Ministry of Science & Technology – India: Awarded prestigious fellowship with yearly scholarship and travel grants for internships during summer, fostering research excellence and innovation.
  

• Organized workshops for Global Transcription Weekly, enabling citizen scientists to transcribe bryophyte herbarium specimens.
• Led fieldwork for Olive Ridley Turtle conservation along the coasts of Bay of Bengal.
• Volunteered for Ek Pehal, tutoring underprivileged students on 'Basic Science & Hygiene' to empower and uplift their communities.
• Participated in public education initiatives such as Darwin’s Day lectures at the McClung Museum of Natural History & Culture.
• Engaged in WeDigBio outreach efforts with Tenn Herbarium, contributing to digitizing biodiversity specimens worldwide.