As the name implies, our research group seeks to gain ecological understanding that enables us to manage plant species and communities. The context ranges from the management of agricultural weeds, to the conservation of rare endemic species and the remediation of degraded habitats. The habitats of interest include native forests and reserves, roadsides, pastures, horticulture and broadacre field crops. Management must be underpinned by sound ecological theory and therefore part of our research involves more esoteric work on ecological principles.

For the staff and students in the group, we provide a stimulating environment in which to have fun whilst doing research - a sense of humour is as essential as dedication to the cause of applied ecology! We conduct research at the honours, postgraduate, post-doctoral and consultancy levels, at the highest international standards. Most of the participants are based in metropolitan Melbourne, at the University of Melbourne's Burnley Campus, although some may be based for part or all of their time in appropriate rural locations.

The principal academic staff are Professor Roger Cousens (Burnley campus), Mr John Delpratt (Burnley campus) and Dr. Ken Young (Dookie campus).

Other academic staff associated with the group include Dr Sally Stewart-Wade (Burnley campus)

• Research Index
• The Institute of Melbourne School of Land and Environment