Research

I am interested in applying mathematical modelling and optimisation to a wide range of management-driven conservation and natural resource problems.  At the moment I am working on

Managing food waste to minimize wasted biodiversity

In collaboration with researchers at the University of California Berkeley and University of California Santa Barbara.

Impacts of market-based land clearing laws on habitat fragmentation

In collaboration with researchers at the University of California Berkeley.

Managing the intersection between food, energy, and water resource systems

In collaboration with researchers at the University of California Berkeley and University of California Santa Barbara.

Eradicating invasive mammals from off-shore and remote islands

Island ecosystems hold massive amounts of biodiversity, but many are at threat from invasive mammals. These invasive species impact threatened and endemic species through predation, competition, and habitat destruction. Eradicating invasive species from islands is much more feasible than from mainland reserves (since the threat of reintroduction is lessened), but it’s very expensive. I work on multiple projects with different government and non-government organizations in Australia to determine how limited funds can be allocated to eradication efforts on islands to achieve desirable conservation outcomes.

In collaboration with researchers at the University of Queensland, the Australian Antarctic Division, the Tasmanian Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water, and Environment.

Establishing new populations of threatened species

Threatened species with reduced and fragmented habitats can be reintroduced into their historical ranges to establish new populations. Multiple sites might be an option for reintroductions; therefore, managers must determine when to open sites (e.g. establish infrastructure and improve conditions), release individuals into those sites, and eventually cease releases. Careful planning of this schedule, incorporating the cost of actions, is imperative at the outset of a program.

In collaboration with researchers at the University of Queensland and Perth Zoo.

Predator-proof fences for conservation

Large-scale fences are used to keep invasive predators and competitors (mainly cats, foxes and rabbits in Australia) away from threatened populations.  These fences are very expensive, and so it is important to spend money in the most cost-efficient way possible.  I am involved in multiple projects working with land managers from the Department of Environment and Conservation Western Australia and other mathematicians to provide a decision framework for designing these fences.

In collaboration with researchers at the University of Melbourne, University of Queensland, Western Australian Department of Environment and Conservation.