Research Environments

Our team works across a variety of marine habitats types including intertidal, open coastal, and embayment environments. We work on a variety of species models including molluscs, fish, sharks, crustaceans, cnidarians, echinoderms, and macrophytes (seagrass and macroalgae). The geographical scope of our marine research extends from tropical to temperate ocean waters both in Australia and abroad.

Australian riverine ecosystems are highly dynamic, shaped by a long and unique history of extreme climatic events. These processes are largely responsible for shaping Australia's unique riverine biodiversity and their adaptations to harsh environmental conditions. We work on a variety of species model systems including fish, invertebrates and birds extending from urban waterways, to the Murray-Darling Basin, and the Kimberley Plateau.

The alpine region of mainland Australia is a multi-use landscape of cultural, ecological, geological and hydrological significance, and is recognized as one of the world’s 187 biodiversity hotspots. Alpine environments are acutely sensitive to elevated temperatures and the current threats of anthropogenic climate change. Our research program involves studies into patterns and drivers of biogeographic structuring in the Australian alps, the adaptive capacity of Australian flora and fauna, and conservation restoration practices that enhance environmental resilience and ecosystem functionality.

Australia is renowned for its rich terrestrial biodiversity and patterns of endemism. Yet climate, land-use change, and invasive species pose a significant threat to these values. Our team studies the ecology and evolution of terrestrial plant and animal species, ranging from keystone tree species to rare and threatened birds and marsupials. Our work is geared toward understanding species evolutionary trajectories and adaptive management needed to enhance environmental resilience and ecosystem functionality. Our study systems extend from open savannahs to woodlands and forests with a primary focus on south-eastern Australia.

Australian wetland habitats are extremely diverse, ranging from permanent coastal to inland ephemeral ecosystems. These habitats harbor unique flora and fauna communities, spanning from obligate aquatic organisms to terrestrial visitors. Wetland habitats and biodiversity face a number of significant challenges ranging from urbanization, to climate change and drainage. Our research program has a keen focus on the conservation, restoration and monitoring of wetland species including fish, amphibians and birds.