MDR Team

Dr. Aylin Akkaya is a marine scientist, conservationist, and the founding director of DMAD – Marine Mammals Research Association and MDR-Montenegro Dolphin Research. With over two decades of hands-on experience in marine mammal research and community engagement, she has dedicated her career to bridging the gap between science and society. Aylin’s work spans across the Eastern Mediterranean and the Adriatic to the Indian Ocean, where she leads pioneering efforts in cetacean research, marine conservation, and stakeholder collaboration. From empowering local communities to mentoring the next generation of researchers, her impact is both global and grassroots.

Suzanne Kamsteeg has been a Researcher and Volunteer Supervisor with MDR since early 2024. With a background in International Tourism Management, she soon discovered her passion for marine conservation. What began as a volunteer role grew into a long-term commitment, leading her to make Montenegro her home with MDR. On a day-to-day basis, Suzanne leads field surveys, supports research techniques, manages administrative tasks, and plays an active role in public outreach and engagement.

Maisie Kirkland has been a Researcher and Volunteer supervisor with MDR since the start of 2025. After graduating with a Bachelors in Zoology with Animal Behaviour, she discovered her passion for Marine Conservation whilst working with the cetaceans in the Canary Islands and spent the following years developing this passion across different oceans. At MDR, Maisie can be found leading daily land surveys, training volunteers in field-based study techniques, supervising community outreach events and assisting with organisational admin.

Balša Dragović joined MDR as a Stakeholder Engagement Specialist with expertise in wildlife research and conservation. He is a graduate of Harvard University, where he studied History and Science with a focus on Environmental Science and Public Policy. Currently, Balša is advancing his academic background through the Erasmus+ Master’s Program in Maritime Environmental Protection and Management at the Faculty of Maritime Studies in Kotor, Montenegro. His experience includes independent academic research projects and collaboration with various NGOs – most notably with Earth.Org, an international think tank based in Hong Kong.

Sanja Dragović joined the MDR team as a nature enthusiast, with a strong desire to help align tourism activities with nature conservation, especially in the Bay of Kotor. She obtained her education at the Faculty of Tourism and Hotel Management in Kotor. As an MDR team member, she studies marine mammals and their behavioral patterns. In her daily work, she performs administrative tasks and participates in community engagement and outreach activities.

Vuk Koljenšić, is working to connect local communities in Montenegro with international scientists and students through Montenegro Dolphin Research. His focus is on creating meaningful exchanges through education, field activities, and collaborative projects. He believes that bringing together local knowledge and international perspectives strengthens both people and nature. Through this work, he aims to inspire cooperation, understanding, and long-term care for the Adriatic Sea.