Sustainability

Soil is a vast and complex ecosystem that supports over a billion life forms, however concerns around the impact of ongoing soil degradation are escalating. Generous funding from an anonymous donor is enabling the University of Newcastle to explore an integrated approach to improve soil health that could revolutionise agricultural practices globally.

The land and waters around Australia support approximately 700,000 native species, many of which are found nowhere else in the world. The generosity of alumnus, the late Gregory Knibb is advancing research to preserve natural habitats of native frog species.

A newly funded philanthropic scholarship to study the nocturnal movements of shorebird communities within the Port Stephens and Hunter estuaries is set to reveal more about the foraging behaviours of our native shorebirds than ever before.

With a collection of over 14,000 specimens and counting, the Don McNair Herbarium’s ability to support research, teaching and community education continues to grow.

The plight of our smallest intrepid adventurers is under the spotlight with the inaugural University of Newcastle Australian Wildlife Society Research Conservation Scholarship awarded to PhD candidate Louise Williams.

Vera Deacon OAM (1926 – 2021) brought Newcastle’s history to life. Vera Deacon left an indelible mark on her beloved city of Newcastle and most certainly the University of Newcastle. Vera tirelessly championed the safeguarding of our region's history and shared her stories and passions with many.