562 | Birds, Fatty Acids, and Isotopes: A Story About Where Fresh and Marine Waters Meet

In this week's episode, hosts Ryan Baxter and Mark Ambrogio interview GradCast's own Scott Walters, a long-time host and producer. Shortly after his successful PhD defence on June 11, Scott's thesis was​ published on the Western website.

Scott's research explored how the feeding patterns of water-associated birds are reflected in the levels of omega-3 fatty acids in their bodies. Surprised by the results, Scott talks the hosts through some of the prevailing hypotheses that contextualized his research and talks through an explanation for his findings.

In their conversation, Ryan and Mark also listen as Scott recounts his journey from the West Coast to Western. With Scott's time at GradCast winding down, they reminisce about collaboration with Radio Western, playing analogue music (vinyl and CDs) live on air, and the importance of family and friends to a well-rounded graduate experience.

Scott's PhD thesis: https://uwo.scholaris.ca/items/59896d8f-a9c8-457f-b087-81ecdfc25065

Recorded on Tuesday, July 7, 2026 Produced by Kuljeet Chohan Theme song provided by FreeBeats.io (Produced by WhiteHot)