School of Environmental and Life Sciences
Develop solutions to our planet's issues.
Challenging global perspectives
We are dedicated to building research and teaching skills that promote critical thinking and problem-solving. We focus on finding solutions to the challenges facing our planet, plants, animals, and people.
The fight for plastic free oceans 1:38
Emilee, a Bachelor of Science student at the University of Newcastle’s Central Coast campus, has a vision of the world’s oceans free of plastic pollution.
Developing solutions to our planet's issues
From wildlife conservation to human reproduction research, we work to solve the world’s biggest challenges.
Study areas
Our students are taught by top academics and use world-class facilities while earning their qualifications. We also have strong connections to industry, which students can access through field trips and career-ready placement opportunities.
Fertility success 1:15
A world-first sperm extender is set to more than double the effectiveness of artificial insemination rates in horses and may also have implications for humans.
Research
We’ve built a strong reputation, with many of our researchers earning national and international recognition for their work on our planet and its life.
News
News • 28 Oct 2025
Celebrating Earth Science Week: Exploring the Past, Shaping the Future
The College of Engineering, Science and Environment (CESE) hosted a thought-provoking Earth Science Week event, Exploring the Past, Shaping the Future, bringing together students, researchers, and industry professionals to reflect on the critical role Earth Science plays in shaping our world.
News • 30 Sep 2025
Celebrating Research Excellence: Dr Ed Johnson Awarded Prestigious AINSE Grants
Dr Ed Johnson has secured two prestigious awards from the Australian Institute of Nuclear Science and Engineering (AINSE): the Early Career Researcher Grant (ECRG) and the AINSE ANSTO French Embassies (SAAFE) Research Internship.
News • 19 Sep 2025
Scientists breed hope for endangered Littlejohn’s frog
For the first time, scientists have successfully bred the Littlejohn’s tree frog (Litoria littlejohni) in captivity. This marks a major milestone in the conservation of the endangered species.
News • 21 Aug 2025
Building Partnerships and Biodiversity in the Cook Islands
Associate Professor Troy Gaston and Dr Alex Callen from the School of Environmental and Life Sciences last month travelled to Rarotonga in the Cook Islands as part of the Enhancing Nature’s Unique Areas: Catchment Audit Activities project.
News • 21 Aug 2025
Building Partnerships and Biodiversity in the Cook Islands
Associate Professor Troy Gaston and Dr Alex Callen from the School of Environmental and Life Sciences last month travelled to Rarotonga in the Cook Islands as part of the Enhancing Nature’s Unique Areas: Catchment Audit Activities project.
News • 17 Jul 2025
Experiment Fest 2025 | Where Curiosity Meets Discovery
For more than 20 years, Experiment Fest, led by the College of Engineering, Science and Environment, has given local high school students a real taste of what science looks like beyond the classroom - and this year we received over 1,580 registrations from across 57 schools who joined us for our biggest event yet!
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.