Why choose RIEL?
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'Outstanding performance' in environmental science and management, and ecology
2018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA) ranking: 5
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Performance above world standard in ecological applications
2018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA) ranking: 4
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RIEL is ranked ‘High’ in engagement, impact and approach to impact
2018 Engagement and Impact assessment (EI) ranking: High
Director's message
Welcome to the Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods. We host and offer internationally significant research initiatives, postgraduate study and consultancy services related to natural and human systems in northern Australia and neighbouring regions.
Our teaching and research excellence, collaborative approach, and dynamic staff and students are making a RIEL difference across the region.
I feel privileged to be supporting such achievements at this important time for the north and hope to work with you soon.
- RIEL Director, Prof. Sam Banks
Our research areas
Undergraduate study
Many of our world-class researchers also teach into the Environmental Science bachelors degree and other programs. If you are interested in studying environmental science as an undergraduate or honours student, watch this video and then find out how to apply for CDU's Science, Environmental Science and Management courses.
RIEL news
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Researchers discover hundreds of new ant species in Northern Australia’s tropics
Thousands of new species of ants from the monsoonal tropics have been discovered by researchers at Charles Darwin University (CDU), making ant populations in Northern Australia some of the most diverse in the world.
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Buffel grass risk to ancient trees explored in Central Australia
Read moreLong-term research at Charles Darwin University (CDU) could help safeguard the longevity of river red gums that have figured in the arid riverine woodlands of Central Australia for hundreds of years.
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Ensuring food safety in Freshwater Turtles
Read moreThe Finniss River floodplain Long-necked turtles have been hunted and eaten by the local first nations people for a long time. Recently, local hunters have noticed that the turtles seem to have become more difficult to find and their meat appears to look and taste different.