What is your role here at Flinders?

I am the Matthew Flinders Professor of Biodiversity Genomics and Director of the Molecular Ecology Lab at Flinders University (MELFU).

What initially drew you to study biodiversity, genomics and evolution, and then climate change?

I developed an early curiosity, admiration, and respect for biodiversity (nature’s most dramatic manifestation) during fishing trips with my dad in Brazil, a country second to none in levels of biodiversity. Later at uni, I learned that genetics (now known as genomics) is one of the best tools we have to study and conserve biodiversity, including natural resources impacted by rapid climate warming and other changes in the environment.

Tell us a bit about your research in molecular ecology and the impact it can have on the wider community?

I do both basic and applied research in biodiversity genomics, evolution and conservation management, focusing on marine and freshwater animals and their ecosystems. I’m particularly interested in how fish populations and other natural resources have adapted over time, and how they might respond to environmental change and different management practices. Our lab’s work has helped prevent species and population extinctions, addressed challenges faced by industry and regional communities, and informed policy and management decisions that deliver real benefits in Australia and beyond.

What has been your career highlight to date?

My answer falls into two parts. First, I’m really proud of helping build and mentor international teams of successful researchers. Former lab members now hold academic and research positions on every inhabited continent. Other folks enjoyed the team so much they chose to keep working with me at Flinders. I like to think I made the most of the mentoring I received throughout my own career (academics can also be great mentors!), and that I’ve passed those lessons on to my research group.

Second, I feel incredibly fortunate to have worked in, or built research programs across some of the most remote, understudied, biodiversity-rich ecosystems on Earth: Amazonia, the Galápagos, Patagonia, the Gulf of California, Antarctica, Wallacea, the Pampas, the Cerrado, and several marine and freshwater regions in Australia. These experiences have been genuinely mind-blowing, and they’ve let me extend my research’s environmental and societal impact to very different corners of the world.

What do you enjoy about working at Flinders?

The Bedford Park Campus has a friendly, relaxed atmosphere and a fantastic location. It allows you to live close to work while also being within easy reach of beautiful beaches, world-class wine regions, the Adelaide Hills, and a sophisticated, culturally rich city.

Tell us about your ideal weekend.

Here’s another answer in two parts. I often spend weekends on the southern tip of the beautiful Fleurieu Peninsula – walking, kayaking, snorkelling (summer only), and just wandering. No connectivity allowed! When I’m in Adelaide, I love sharing meals with friends and family (cooking is a real passion of mine), or catching a music gig in the city, preferably alternative rock.