Specialisations
Freshwater ecology
The study of freshwater systems throughout the Murray Darling Basin is a strong research focus on our campus. Research on rivers, lakes, and wetlands is done in an adaptive management framework with a strongly applied focus. Much of this research is used to inform local, state and federal government authorities about best policy and practice in the conservation of freshwater systems.
Staff involved: Darren Baldwin, Roger Croome, Susan Lawler, Daryl Nielsen, Ben Gawne, Gavin Rees, Rick Stoffels, Phil Suter, Warren Paul
Terrestrial ecology
Several staff are interested in terrestrial ecological issues such as the impact of fire on ecosystems, the measurement of ecological health and the understanding of land based organisms. Some of this research takes place in alpine and arid environments, expanding the research of this department far beyond freshwater systems.
Staff involved: Dennis Black, Peter Pridmore, Warren Paul
Biogeochemistry
The interaction between the chemistry of the environment and its biota is an important component of all natural systems. Integrating geology, chemistry and the impact of plants and animals is an area of active research in the alps and in the Murray Darling Basin.
Staff involved: Ewen Silvester, Darren Baldwin, Gavin Rees, Ben Gawne, Martin Fussell
Biodiversity and taxonomy
Community structure and ecosystem health cannot be measured or understood without a strong taxonomic foundation. Several of our staff are at the forefront of species identification and description, including the use of molecular techniques to identify cryptic species, match larval and adult forms of insects, or to characterise community profiles of bacteria or fungi.
Staff involved: Roger Croome, Susan Lawler, Phil Suter, Dennis Black, Peter Pridmore, Rick Stoffels, Daryl Nielsen, Gavin Rees
Applied conservation and adaptive management
Research that supports management agencies requires a strong commitment to communication between government bodies and the scientists. This includes careful design of monitoring programs and a strong emphasis on modelling that leads to predictions that can be tested.
Staff involved: Darren Baldwin, Daryl Nielsen, Susan Lawler, Dennis Black, Peter Pridmore, Ben Gawne, Warren Paul, Gavin Rees, Rick Stoffels, Phil Suter
