Kathy A Townsend

Profile

Professor Kathy Townsend is the current Associate Dean (Research) for the School of Science, Technology, and Engineering. Her research focuses on marine conservation and human impacts on the marine environment. Her award-winning research programs draw strength from a multidisciplinary approach and tackle global issues, such as the impacts of marine pollution and human impacts on the marine environment. She is passionate about mentoring the next generation of researchers, having supervised over 50 post graduate students. She is the founder of The Milbi Sea Turtle Research and Rehabilitation Centre, Project Manta, and the Marine and Terrestrial Megafauna Research Cluster. She has provided expert advice and influenced policy development at all levels of Australian government and internationally, including the United Nations. Her leadership roles span both internal and external committees, including significant positions in scientific advisory boards and editorial roles. Her work has garnered extensive media coverage, raising public awareness about marine conservation issues. Prof. Townsend’s career impact is underscored by her dedication to research, mentorship, and advocacy for marine environmental protection.

Expert Advice and Influence on Policy Development

Prof. Townsend’s research has been cited in over 220 policy documents since 2015, including publications from the United Nations, IPBES, OECD, State of NSW, State of QLD, UNESCO, United Nations Environment program, World Health Organisation, State of WA. She works closely with QPWS, GBRMPA and DETSI staff on everything from marine debris impacts, coral reef health, through to sea turtle research and rehabilitation.

Expert media commentary

Prof Kathy Townsend's research focuses on issues such as marine conservation and human impacts on the marine environment. Kathy's research programs draw their strength from a multidisciplinary approach and focus on global scale issues, such as the impacts of marine debris and marine pollution.