Name

Sateesh Venkatesh

Program

US Fulbright Student Researcher

Cycle

20252024

Host: University of Colombo
Role: Researcher studying Human Elephant conflict in farms outside Udawalawe National Park
Project Title: Pathways to Coexistance
Major: Biology
National Geographic Explorer
Research Aims:
My research for the Fulbright work aims to understand the complex relationship between elephants and subsistence farmers in Sri Lanka. Using camera traps, audio recordings, and drone mapping, demonstrating that a greater understanding of both human and wildlife experiences is essential to developing mutually beneficial, sustainable solutions. During my fellowship, I was able to set up new research that creates a soundscape to monitor the conflict. Additionally, I worked with local farmers to develop a storytelling side that complements my research and tells both sides of the conflict in a more nuanced way.

  • Highlight: One major highlight from my Fulbright was conducting a 3-day workshop in conjunction with Eshadi Mendis a fellow National Geographic explorer, the Sri Lankan Fulbright commission and the US Embassies American Corner Matara. This workshop funded by a grant through National Geographic allowed me to connect with local students and young conservationists to better understand what the future of conservation looks like in Sri Lanka. The workshop was designed to give 40 18–25-year-olds a view of different pathways and careers in conservation. It was also designed to provide them with skills like networking and public speaking.

  • Traveling Sri Lanka: During my time in the country, I was able to travel around most of the country by car. Most of my work is with local rural farmers so I got a chance to spend a significant amount of time staying out on the farms and getting to know them better. Additionally, because of Fulbright I was able to travel around the country and see people in different areas and different cultures. By connecting with other Fulbrighters in the country I traveled and explored through their interests and research sites.

  • Advice: Take time to explore the country on the local level and get to know people better. Don’t just try and see everything to get it checked off your list. Spend time with people in each place and find out what makes that place special to them.