Discovering Zoology at La Trobe
Welcome to the Department of Zoology at La Trobe University. In our research and teaching we consider the evolution of animal diversity at individual, population and community levels with a particular focus on animal physiology, ecology and behaviour. [ Screen cluttered? - Hide Research Feature ]
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RESEARCH INTERESTS
Staff in the Department of Zoology have an international research reputation, with strengths in fields spanning physiology, ecology and behaviour. Our facilities at the Melbourne (Bundoora) campus include a dedicated Animal House, a Zoological Reserve, the La Trobe Wildlife Sanctuary and the Nature Conservation Reserve.
Click on:
- a thumbnail image → brief descriptions of our research strengths
- the main image → links to our Research page. -
Muscle Physiology
People in our lab examine aspects of muscle function using mechanically-skinned single fibres. We use fibres predominantly from soleus and EDL muscle of Long-Evans Hooded Rats (Rattus norvegicus) and C57BL\10 mice (Mus musculus), as well as the iliofibularis from Toad (Bufo marinus).
→ Visit the Muscle Physiology group group via our Research page. -
Conservation Biology
The Conservation and Wildlife Ecology research group conducts research on a range of applied issues affecting a range of vertebrate and invertebrate taxa. Members of the group are actively involved in research that leads to practical conservation outcomes for threatened fauna. Most group members serve on national recovery teams for threatened taxa.
→ Visit the Conservation biology group via our Research page. -
Reproductive Physiology
Research on the ecology and evolutionary physiology of reproduction, particularly viviparity (pregnancy). Topics include, maternal effects on offspring phenotypes, sex allocation and the physiological and endocrinological basis for variation in life history.
→ Visit the Robert Lab via our Research page. -
Behavioural Ecology
Behavioural studies in the department reflect staff interests in ornithology and herpetology. Topics include the evolutionary biology of Australian birds, thermal ecology and life history variation in reptiles and amphibians, and the evolution of animal communication strategies.
→ Visit the Behavioural Ecology group via our Research page. -
Insect Ecology
Our research is focussed on insect ecology and conservation, with an emphasis on biotic (biological and behavioural mechanisms underlying interactions with other invertebrates & plants) and abiotic (soil, environment, climate) factors affecting insect community composition, distribution and functioning.
→ Visit the Insect Ecology group via our Research page. -
Fire ecology
A number of research projects are investigating the effects of fire on multiple taxa (birds, reptiles, mammals and invertebrates). Key topics include: the influence of fire-induced landscape mosaics on fauna, post-fire responses in different species, the impact of fire severity on animals, and the role of unburnt habitat refuges
→ Visit the Fire Ecology group via our Research page.
RESEARCH INTERESTS
Staff in the Department of Zoology have an outstanding international research reputation, with strengths in fields spanning
physiology, ecology and behaviour. Our facilities at the Melbourne (Bundoora) campus include a dedicated Animal House,
a Zoological Reserve, the La Trobe Wildlife Sanctuary and the Nature Conservation Reserve.
Click on:
- a thumbnail image → for brief descriptions of our research
- the main image → links to to our Research page.
Zoology is the scientific study of animals and encompasses evolutionary, ecological and physiological areas of investigation. We offer a supportive environment for
undergraduate students to learn about animal diversity and to gain valuable practical skills. Our department also seeks to foster the careers of postgraduate research
students engaging in important theoretical and applied problems in animal biology.
Follow the links below for information about our undergraduate and
postgraduate study options.
Undergraduates → visit our undergraduate studies page to find out about our study areas and courses, as well as other information to help you choose your first degree.
Postgraduates → visit our postgraduate studies page for information about Master's or PhD programs in zoology, ecology, biosciences, animal sciences and other areas. Prospective PhD students should also consult our research page for information about academic staff areas of interest.
