John Woinarski

A Professor at the Research Institute of Environment and Livelihoods, Charles Darwin University, John has been involved in research, policy and management of Australian biodiversity for about 40 years, with a particular focus in northern Australia.

Much of this work has been on the ecology, biogeography and conservation management of mammals and birds, but also includes a very broad range of other subjects including invertebrates, reptiles, plants, reserve design, fire, habitat fragmentation, forestry, biodiversity monitoring, mining and island biogeography.

John’s work is often motivated by the wonder of nature; feelings of despair (as we lose it) and hope (as we learn to value and care for it). His work is largely about seeking small advances in solving the never-ending puzzle of nature – how it works, and how such understanding can be used to better manage it.

He has authored and edited six books and more than 200 scientific papers and book chapters. The most recent major publication is the co-authored Action Plan for Australian Mammals, published in June 2014.

His work has been recognised with the:

• Eureka Prize for biodiversity research (2001)
• Serventy Medal for life-time contribution to Australian ornithology (2001)
• Northern Territory Tropical Knowledge Research and Innovation Award (2008)
• Northern Territory Chief Minister’s Award for Research and Innovation (2008)
• Australian Natural History Medallion (2011).

He also works with the Pew Charitable Trusts.