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NEST - The Network for Emerging Sustainability Thinkers
Today, on World Environment Day, the Environment Institute is proudly launching NEST - the Network for Emerging Sustainability Thinkers. NEST is a new network facilitated by the 2025 Future Leaders Committee of the Environment Institute and is tailored for higher-degree and early-career researchers within the University of Adelaide.
[Read more about NEST - The Network for Emerging Sustainability Thinkers]
New National Data Offers Insight into PFAS Levels in Australians
Dr Cameron Shearer has commented on a recent announcement by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), as they have shared new data of a voluntary survey conducted by the ABS’ National Health Measures on Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) levels. The new data creates a baseline of PFAS levels in Australians, that can support deeper research into the possible harm the chemicals can cause.
[Read more about New National Data Offers Insight into PFAS Levels in Australians]
What 50,000 Years of Ancient DNA Uncovers About Human Evolution
Environment Institute member Dr Yassine Souilmi and his team at the Australian Centre for Ancient DNA are challenging what we thought we knew about human adaptation. Their 2022 study, now spotlighted by SCIAM, analysed over 1,100 ancient genomes to uncover powerful genetic adaptations many of which have been erased from modern DNA due to population mixing.
[Read more about What 50,000 Years of Ancient DNA Uncovers About Human Evolution]
Solving the pearl bluebush seed deficit for post-mining revegetation
Jaclyn Wilmot is an Honours student at the University of Adelaide, and student affiliate at the Environment Institute under the supervision of Dr Ilaine Matos, Environment Institute member. She is investigating the challenges of restoring of Maireana sedifolia (pearl bluebush), a native shrub critical to post-mining revegetation in South Australia’s arid zone. Jaclyn shares insights into the complexities of pearl bluebush reproduction, the importance of soil nutrients like nitrogen, and the potential of nature-based solutions to support seed production. Her work highlights the value of science-led restoration and the future of sustainable land management in mining landscapes.
[Read more about Solving the pearl bluebush seed deficit for post-mining revegetation]
Uncovering Hidden Bees in Australia
Dr Katja Hogendoorn, Environment Institute member, has contributed to a new study that has discovered 71 new Australian resin pot bees. This research has just been published in the Australian Journal of Taxonomy.
How the Past Helps Predict the Climate Future of Bowhead Whales
Environment Institute Deputy Director Damien Fordham and member Nicholas Freymueller, are part of an international team with the University of Adelaide and the University of Copenhagen. They examined and reconstructed 11,700 years of bowhead whale ecological history, showing how climate change could erode up to 75% of foraging habitat by the end of the century.
[Read more about How the Past Helps Predict the Climate Future of Bowhead Whales]
Salt on the rise: What lagoon microbes reveal about the future of coastal ecosystems
When coastal lagoons degrade, it's not the fish that react first, it’s the microbes. Environment Institute member Dr Christopher Keneally has lead new research alongside Professor Justin Brookes, and with University of Adelaide academics Dr Virginie Gaget, Dr Stephen Kidd, Associate Professor Luke Mosley and Dr Daniel Chilton and Associate Professor David Welsh, have contributed to a global review exploring how microbial communities in coastal lagoons respond to rising salinity and nutrient stress. These microbes act as early warning systems, helping us detect and ideally prevent ecosystem collapse.
Professor Phil Cassey on the rising threat of reptile smuggling in Australia
Environment Institute Member and Wildlife Crime Research Hub Director Professor Phill Cassey has commented on the illegal smuggling of reptiles that is occurring in Australia.
[Read more about Professor Phil Cassey on the rising threat of reptile smuggling in Australia ]
Bob Croser Woodland Recovery Supplementary Scholarships Now Available
Seeking six full-time PhD students to each receive an annual $10,000 top-up. Projects cover three priority research areas for woodland recovery in the Mt Lofty Ranges.
[Read more about Bob Croser Woodland Recovery Supplementary Scholarships Now Available]
Professor Melissa Nursey-Bray selected as Australian Government Representative for Global IPBES Workshop
Congratulations to Professor Melissa Nursey-Bray, Environment Institute member and research initiative lead for people, nature, climate, who has been selected by the Australian Government to represent Australia at a global IPBES workshop.
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