Research Students
My research lab is dedicated to exploring and addressing key challenges in marine science, with projects spanning ocean literacy and marine restoration. Honours and PhD students lead diverse research initiatives, from understanding public perceptions of the ocean to developing innovative techniques for restoring kelp forests and advancing seaweed farming. By combining fieldwork, laboratory studies, and community engagement, we aim to generate solutions that support marine conservation, coastal resilience, and sustainable industries. Through collaboration and cutting-edge research, we are working to protect and restore our oceans for future generations.
Seaweed projects
Kaylah Gawne (PhD – current): Future-proofing golden kelp populations along the Victorian coastline.
Lui Kennedy (Honours – current): The influence of light wavelength on the growth of Ecklonia radiata.
Zoë Brittain (PhD (Associate Supervisor) – current): Blue Justice, Indigenous Knowledge and the developing Australasian seaweed industry.
Jade Gledhill (Honours – current): Assessing gametophyte density for restoration optimisation.
Pearl Mitchell (Masters (Associate Supervisor)- current): Microbiome influence on Ecklonia radiata growth under thermal and predation stress.
Louise Cairney (Honours – completed 2024): Sustainable fibres for seaweed aquaculture.
Kaylah Gawne (Honours – completed 2024): Optimisation of cultivation techniques of the Golden Kelp, Ecklonia radiata.
Teneille Nitschke (Honours – completed 2023): Assessing patterns of local adaptation and climate change resilience in a functionally important kelp species.
Ocean / science literacy projects
Consuelo Quevedo Ballesteros (PhD – current): Evaluation of human-ocean connection in women participating in guided ocean-based experiences.
Husen Rifai (PhD – current): Community Role on Seagrass Ecosystem Management in Indonesia’s MPA
Andreas Lauer (PhD (Associate Supervisor) – current): Building climate-friendly food literacy to inform people’s dietary choices.
Cátia Freitas (PhD – completed 2024): Using children’s literature to teach marine science concepts.
Madi O’Brien (Honours – completed 2021): Investigating the breadth, scope and impact of marine science programs through informal education settings across Australia’s Great Southern Reef.