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water lillies with green leaves and blue flowers
Welcome to

Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods

Why choose RIEL?

  • 'Outstanding performance' in environmental science and management​, and ecology​

    2018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA) ranking: 5

  • Performance above world standard in ecological applications

    2018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA) ranking: 4

     

  • RIEL is ranked ‘High’ in engagement, impact and approach to impact

    2018 Engagement and Impact assessment (EI)​ ranking: High

     

Research

Postgraduate study

Consultancy services

Sam Banks, head and shoulders, with green vegetation behind
Professor Sam Banks

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

Find out more about RIEL (PDF, 869.6 KB)

RIEL annual report 2024 (PDF, 4.08 MB)

Our research areas

Biodiversity conservation

Communities and livelihoods

Savanna and arid ecology

Water and catchments

Food production

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.

How to apply

RIEL news

  • The project aims to develop production methods for the goldlined rabbitfish (Siganus lineatus).

    New project to grow Indigenous aquaculture on one of Australia’s largest islands

    An Australian island’s efforts to improve food security and transition into a blue economy will be bolstered by a new project to propagate a nutritious and increasingly popular fish. 

    Read more
  • The study explored using satellite imagery and artificial intelligence to detect bitou bush (pictured) and African lovegrass.

    Potential for satellites and AI to help tackle critical invasive species problem

    Satellite imagery and artificial intelligence can detect with high accuracy two invasive weed species in Australia, posing a new opportunity for defense against these pervasive plants.

    Read more
  • The research highlights significant gaps in conservation planning in the Northern Territory. 

    Conservation planning ‘good for biodiversity and business’

    The Northern Territory’s investment in solar and wind energy production needs to benefit people and the planet, but new research highlights critical pitfalls in planning. 

    Read more
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