I specialise in translocation science and threatened species conservation. My experiences in research, consultancy, and regulation have sparked my interest in combining fundamental science with management actions.
By understanding how environmental change impacts physiology, behaviour, habitat use, associations, and ecosystem processes, we can investigate how adaptive management can lead to better on-ground conservation.
Areas of interest
Adam McGrath
Reintroduction biologyReintroductions aim to re-establish species which have been lost from within their former range. However, these conservation interventions can suffer low rates of success, often due to lack of knowledge and structured decision-making.
I recently submitted my PhD thesis exploring how tactics, trials, and adaptive management can improve reintroductions, using the eastern quoll as a case study. |
Craig Dunne
Behavioural ecologyBehaviour can be used as a bioindicator for ecosystem health, by indicating resource availability, habitat preferences, and factors influencing reproductive success. This is particularly true of amphibians, which are tied to the aquatic environment and are therefore vulnerable to water pollution.
I investigated the effect of trace metals on striped marsh frog tadpoles, and found these toxins significantly impacted their ability to forage effectively. |
Paul Nicklen
Spatial dynamicsTop-order predators have significant effects on their ecosystems. For my honours research project, I explored the relationship between the movement of leopard seals and Antarctic pack-ice dynamics over 9 years.
I revealed that leopard seals maintain a central home range, rather than going with the 'floe', which has implications for their prey populations. |
I acknowledge the Ngunnawal and Ngambri peoples as the Traditional Custodians of the land and waters I live and work in, and pay my respects to the Elders past and present. I recognise their continuing connection to Country, and also thank them for protecting its ecosystems since time immemorial.
