Key research areas

Climate, catchments and coasts

Human society is fundamentally altering natural systems on a global and local scale, with unpredictable consequences to people and the environment. Our work improves understanding of these systems to promote science-based policy. We work with stakeholders to ensure policy decisions are effective by reflecting the local cultural context.

Our researchers actively encourage student and postgraduate contributions to our expanding and exciting topics.

Current research focus areas include:

• climate and land surface interactions
• catchment and ecosystem management
• environmental dynamics and ecohydrology
• marine and coastal management
• geographical information science and remote

Our research and student training is conducted in diverse environmental contexts and integrates approaches including field science, geospatial science (GIS and remote sensing), modelling and social science.

People, places and policy

Socio-economic inequalities and complex environmental challenges are increasing and we need to define and respond to the emerging spatial, social, economic and environmental challenges.

Our teaching and research covers a range of topics, including:

• development, migration, and Indigenous geographies
• economic and regional development
• transport planning
• built environment and health
• geographic information systems (GIS)
• urban planning and governance
• transformative social change and community capacity building
• conservation and environmental policy

We are committed to research that has practical application for government, industry and local communities in Western Australia and globally.