Alana Grech

I am a Professor of Environmental Science and the Head of School of Earth and Environmental Science in the College of Science and Engineering at James Cook University. Previously, I served as Assistant Director and Associate Dean of Research Education at the ARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies (2017–2022), Lecturer and Senior Lecturer in Spatial Information Science at Macquarie University (2013–2016), and Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the ARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies at JCU (2010–2012).

My research uses spatial technologies such as geographic information systems, biophysical models, and decision support tools, to generate the evidence needed to guide decisions on tropical coasts facing multiple, interacting threats. I advance methodologies for cumulative impact assessment (CIA) and apply CIA to shape environmental policy, planning, and practical management. Through long-term partnerships with governments, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations and communities, and management agencies, my research delivers knowledge and tools that support better outcomes for Country and strengthens the resilience of northern Australia’s coasts.

I am a Chief Investigator with the ARC Centre of Excellence for Indigenous and Environmental Histories and Futures (CIEHF) and an Associate Editor for Diversity and Distributions. I previously served on the Queensland Species Technical Committee and currently sit on the Queensland Sustainable Fisheries Expert Panel. I am also a JCU Equity Contact Officer and was previously an elected member of the JCU Council (2022-2026). In 2018, I was awarded the Queensland Young Tall Poppy Scientist of the Year.

Spatial planning and coastal management in Indigenous Land and Sea Country

Conservation planning

Cumulative impact and risk assessments

Biophysical modelling of marine plant dispersal and connectivity