Dr Ryan Witt
Postdoctoral Researcher
School of Environmental and Life Sciences (Environmental Science and Management)
Career Summary
Biography
Ryan Witt is a wildlife conservation scientist specialising in marsupial reproduction and reproductive technologies, marsupial ecology, and emerging drone-derived thermal imaging technologies for surveying for koalas and other cryptic species. As a Novocastrian, Ryan has a passion and interest in developing local and regional conservation projects for at-risk marsupial populations in the Hunter Region. He aims to deliver grassroots conservation research of international benefit that is aligned with the National Agenda across three contemporary spheres: drone-based thermal imaging, genome storage, and translocation science.
Ryan completed a Bachelor of Social Science (Recreation and Tourism) in 2008, a Bachelor of Environmental Science and Management (1stClass Honours, Faculty Medal and University Medal) in 2013 and a PhD (Advances in oestrous synchronisation technology for assisted breeding in marsupials) in 2018 at the University of Newcastle.
Ryan is currently a Postdoctoral Researcher and Honorary Lecturer in the College of Engineering, Science and Environment, and also holds a University Colour for his longstanding contribution to University of Newcastle Tennis.
Research Interests and Expertise
Ryan is passionate about koala and marsupial rehabilitation and conservation (assisted reproduction/captive breeding and population monitoring using drones with thermal imaging capabilities). Throughout his doctorate Ryan trained and developed expertise in applied conservation research. His main focus was on marsupial reproduction, developing new techniques to improve breed and release programs for the genetic management of threatened populations. Ryan has considerable expertise surveying for koalas, possums and gliders on the Central Coast, Newcastle and Port Stephens. His experience as a research ecologist includes using drone-dervived thermal imaging and spotlighting to assess the density and occupancy of koala populations, using spotlighting surveys to evaluate the occupancy of threatened squirrel glider populations in Newcastle and Port Stephens. Ryan has also conducted surveys on eastern grey kangaroo (observation, immobilization, capture and veterinary procedures), and has experience quantifying habitat and monitoring green and golden bell frogs on Ash Island.
Ryan’s PhD focus was central to a key problem in marsupial breeding programs – the inability to reliably and accurately time ovulation. This problem occurs in marsupials due to two factors (1) most marsupials ovulate spontaneously, and (2) the marsupial corpus luteum – the organ responsible supporting pregnancy – becomes independent of hypothalamic-pituitary support after formation, and thus eutherian based technologies of oestrous synchronisation designed to disrupt the life of the corpus-luteum have failed in marsupials. Ryan’s research progressed oestrous synchronisation technology in marsupials by using a GnRH agonist and exogenous FSH and LH hormones to regulate the oestrous cycle with the aim of predicting ovulation. By advancing this technology, Ryan’s research has paved the way for non-invasive trials to be conducted. His work is an essential component of assisted reproduction required to establish marsupial artificial insemination programs for conservation management.
In January 2018, Ryan delivered a status update on marsupial assisted reproduction at the 2018 Companion Animals Non-Domestic and Endangered Species (CANDES) symposium, the annual premiere meeting in the area of assisted breeding for non-domestic animals held at the International Embryo Technology Society (IETS) Conference. This paper and conference presentation (Witt& Rodger 2018) addressed the international audience with up-to-date tools and technologies used to monitor and manipulate marsupial oestrous for conservation breeding (Witt and Rodger 2018). Since 2021, Ryan has served as the Australasian board member of the Companion Animals and Non-Domestic Species Specialist Group of the International Embryo Technology Society. This group governs the annual CANDES symposium, the premiere international meeting in the research area of assisted breeding for non-domestic animals.
Ryan is dedicated to establishing conservation research projects and partnerships that serve to ensure the recovery of the NSW Koala population, and the survival of the threatened squirrel glider in the urban forests of Newcastle. Ryan aims to ensure future generations will have the opportunity to experience what it’s like to see a koala or a squirrel glider in the wild. Most recently, Ryan has collaborated with NSW DPIE to develop a drone/thermal imaging method for detecting koalas in the wild.
Teaching Expertise
Ryan is a connections and workshop expert and since 2013 has delivered workshops specialising in connecting leading environmental industry practitioners, and professional organisations positioned within the Hunter Region, with final semester Environmental Science and Management students. In 2019, Ryan developed the new blended learning modules and flipped class room model for the capstone course ENVS3002 – Environmental Management perspectives [formerly Applied Environmental Science]. This course seeks to prepare the students for the all-important next step post-graduation– becoming an effective environmental professional. In 2019 and 2020, Ryan co-developed the NUPrep course, Reading and Writing for the Sciences with the English Language and Foundation Studies Centre (Academic Division at the University of Newcastle). The course has been a great success, and is a fun, engaging way for students of any year level to build their skills in scientific report writing,
Ryan’s teaching duties have included the preparation and delivery of lectures, tutorials, running practical classes such as laboratories, field trips and workshops, and course coordination roles. Ryan excels in teaching workshops and flipped format courses and engaging external practitioners with student learning outcomes. Ryan has also assisted in teaching a range of courses across all year levels in the Bachelor of Environmental Science and Management and the Bachelor of Science Program. These include: BIOL1003 – Professional Skills for the Biological Sciences; ENVS1000 – Environmental Sustainability Explained; SCIE1001 – Professional Scientific Thinking; SCIE1003 - Advanced Scientific Thinking; ENVS2005 –Management of Australian Flora; SRMT3060 – Restoration Ecology; ENVS3001 – Integrated Impact Assessment; and, ENVS3002 – Environmental Management Perspectives (Formerly Applied Environmental Science).
Contribution to University of Newcastle Sport
Ryan was awarded a University Colour in the Sport of Tennis for his administrative contribution to the development and maintenance of the University of Newcastle Tennis Club between 2011 and 2018.
Colours are awarded to those that have made an outstanding contribution to the organisation and administration of University sport over a period of not less than three full years. This is a highly prized award which recognises protracted contribution to University sport above and beyond the diligent completion of administrative responsibilities of elected or appointed office.
Qualifications
- Doctor of Philosophy, University of Newcastle
- Bachelor of Social Science (Recreation & Tourism), University of Newcastle
- Bachelor of Environmental Science and Management, University of Newcastle
- Bachelor of Environmental Science and Management (Honours), University of Newcastle
Keywords
- Applied Conservation
- Drone
- Koala
- Marsupials
- RPAS
- Reproduction
- Thermal Imaging
- Wildlife Ecology
- Wildlife Management
- Wildlife Monitoring
Languages
- English (Mother)
Fields of Research
Code | Description | Percentage |
---|---|---|
410401 | Conservation and biodiversity | 60 |
310903 | Animal developmental and reproductive biology | 10 |
410404 | Environmental management | 30 |
Professional Experience
UON Appointment
Title | Organisation / Department |
---|---|
Casual Academic | University of Newcastle School of Environmental and Life Sciences Australia |
Postdoctoral Researcher | University of Newcastle School of Environmental and Life Sciences Australia |
Academic appointment
Dates | Title | Organisation / Department |
---|---|---|
29/1/2019 - | Honorary Lecturer | School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle Australia |
Membership
Dates | Title | Organisation / Department |
---|---|---|
23/11/2021 - | Scientific Associate | Taronga Conservation Society, Australia Australia |
25/2/2021 - | Australasian board member of the Companion Animals and Non-Domestic Endangered Species Specialist Group | International Embryo Technology Society United States |
24/9/2020 - | Member | Royal Zoological Society of NSW |
Awards
Award
Year | Award |
---|---|
2020 |
Collaboration Excellence Award School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle |
2017 |
University Colour (Tennis) NUSport Board |
2014 |
Faculty Medal 2013 Faculty of Science and IT, University of Newcastle |
2014 |
University Medal in Environmental Science & Management 2013 Faculty of Science and IT, University of Newcastle |
Teaching Award
Year | Award |
---|---|
2019 |
Collaboration Excellence Team Award: in the implementation and delivery of SCIE1001 and SCIE1002 The University of Newcastle |
Teaching
Code | Course | Role | Duration |
---|---|---|---|
ENVS3001 |
Integrated Impact Assessment School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, The university of Newcastle, Australia |
Tutor | 27/2/2017 - 2/6/2017 |
SCIE1003 |
Advanced Scientific Thinking College of Engineering, Science and Environment, University of Newcastle |
Workshop Facilitator | 24/2/2020 - 30/6/2020 |
ENVS1000 |
Environmental Sustainability Explained School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, The university of Newcastle, Australia |
Online Tutor | 25/2/2019 - 7/6/2019 |
BIOL1003 |
Professional Skills for the Biological Sciences Faculty of Science | University of Newcastle |
Laboratory Demonstrator | 30/7/2018 - 9/11/2018 |
SCIE1001 |
Professional Scientific Thinking School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle |
Workshop Demonstrator (Flipped Classroom) | 25/2/2019 - 13/11/2020 |
ENVS3002 |
Environmental Management Perspectives School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, The university of Newcastle, Australia Formerly known as ENVS3002 - Applied Environmental Science |
Various Duties: Blended Learning Developer; Flipped Workshop Developer/Facilitator; Co-ordinator (Shared); Industry Engagement and Field Trip Organiser; Tutor | 1/7/2013 - 31/12/2020 |
SRMT3060 |
Restoration Ecology School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, The university of Newcastle, Australia |
Laboratory and Field Demonstrator | 25/2/2019 - 7/6/2019 |
ENVS2005 |
Management of Australian Flora School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, The university of Newcastle, Australia |
Laboratory Demonstrator | 24/7/2017 - 31/12/2020 |
ENVS3003 |
Conservation Biology University of Newcastle |
Field Demonstrator | 17/2/2020 - 27/3/2020 |
Indigenous Tutorial Program Wollotuka Institute |
Tutor | 1/10/2020 - 31/12/2020 |
Publications
For publications that are currently unpublished or in-press, details are shown in italics.
Journal article (20 outputs)
Year | Citation | Altmetrics | Link | ||||||||
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2023 |
Howell LG, Mawson PR, Comizzoli P, Witt RR, Frankham R, Clulow S, et al., 'Modeling genetic benefits and financial costs of integrating biobanking into the conservation breeding of managed marsupials.', Conserv Biol, 37 e14010 (2023) [C1]
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Nova | |||||||||
2023 |
Howell LG, Witt RR, 'Emerging arguments for reproductive technologies in wildlife and their implications for assisted reproduction and conservation of threatened marsupials.', Theriogenology, 198 19-29 (2023) [C1]
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Nova | |||||||||
2022 |
Hayward MW, Meyer NFV, Balkenhol N, Beranek CT, Bugir CK, Bushell KV, et al., 'Intergenerational Inequity: Stealing the Joy and Benefits of Nature From Our Children', Frontiers in Ecology and Evolution, 10 (2022) [C1]
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Nova | |||||||||
2022 |
Howell LG, Johnston SD, O'Brien JK, Frankham R, Rodger JC, Ryan SA, et al., 'Modelling Genetic Benefits and Financial Costs of Integrating Biobanking into the Captive Management of Koalas', ANIMALS, 12 (2022) [C1]
|
Nova | |||||||||
2022 |
Howell LG, Clulow J, Jordan NR, Beranek CT, Ryan SA, Roff A, Witt RR, 'Drone thermal imaging technology provides a cost-effective tool for landscape-scale monitoring of a cryptic forest-dwelling species across all population densities', WILDLIFE RESEARCH, 49 66-78 (2022) [C1]
|
Nova | |||||||||
2022 |
Phelan L, Baker S, Cooper G, Horton T, Whitling S, Hodge P, et al., 'Putting the PASS in Class: Peer Mentors' Identities in Science Workshops on Campus and Online', Journal of Peer Learning, 14 21-36 (2022) [C1] In this paper, we analyse the introduction of peer mentors into timetabled classes to understand how in-class mentoring supports students' learning. The peer mentors in this ... [more] In this paper, we analyse the introduction of peer mentors into timetabled classes to understand how in-class mentoring supports students' learning. The peer mentors in this study are high-achieving students who previously completed the same course and who were hired and trained to facilitate Peer Assisted Study Sessions (PASS). PASS gives students the opportunity to deepen their understanding through revision and active learning and are typically held outside of class time. In contrast, our trial embedded peer mentors into classes for a large (-250 students) first-year workshop-based course. We employed a participatory action research methodology to facilitate the peer mentors' cocreation of the research process. Data sources include peer mentors' journal entries, student cohort data, and a focus group with teaching staff. We found that during face-to-face workshops, peer mentors role-modelled ideal student behaviour (e.g., asking questions) rather than acting as additional teachers, and this helped students to better understand how to interact effectively in class. The identity of embedded peer mentors is neither that of teachers nor of students, and it instead spans aspects of both as described using a three-part schema comprising (i) identity, (ii) associated roles, and (iii) associated practices. As we moved classes online mid-semester in response to the COVID- 19 pandemic, mentors' identities remained stable, but mentors adjusted their associated roles and practices, including through the technical aspects of their engagement with students. This study highlights the benefits of embedding mentors in classrooms on campus and online.
|
Nova | |||||||||
2021 |
Howell LG, Frankham R, Rodger JC, Witt RR, Clulow S, Upton RMO, et al., 'Integrating biobanking could produce significant cost benefits and minimise inbreeding for Australian amphibian captive breeding programs', REPRODUCTION FERTILITY AND DEVELOPMENT, 33 573-587 (2021) [C1]
|
Nova | |||||||||
2021 |
Witt RR, Hinds LA, Rodger JC, 'Human chorionic gonadotrophin does not induce ovulation in the tammar wallaby', Australian Mammalogy, 43 354-354 (2021) [C1]
|
Nova | |||||||||
2021 |
Beranek CT, Roff A, Denholm B, Howell LG, Witt RR, 'Trialling a real-time drone detection and validation protocol for the koala (', Australian Mammalogy, 43 260-264 [C1]
|
Nova | |||||||||
2021 |
Howell LG, Frankham R, Rodger JC, Witt RR, Clulow S, Upton RMO, Clulow J, 'Integrating biobanking minimises inbreeding and produces significant cost benefits for a threatened frog captive breeding programme', Conservation Letters, 14 (2021) [C1]
|
Nova | |||||||||
2020 |
Witt RR, Hinds LA, Rodger JC, 'Induction of synchronous oestrus but not ovulation after pre-treatment with the GnRH agonist, Lucrin® Depot, in the tammar wallaby.', Theriogenology, 145 24-30 (2020) [C1]
|
Nova | |||||||||
2020 |
Callen A, Hayward MW, Klop-Toker K, Allen BL, Ballard G, Broekhuis F, et al., 'Envisioning the future with compassionate conservation : An ominous projection for native wildlife and biodiversity', Biological Conservation, 241 (2020) [C1] The ¿Compassionate Conservation¿ movement is gaining momentum through its promotion of ¿ethical¿ conservation practices based on self-proclaimed principles of ¿first-do-no-harm¿ a... [more] The ¿Compassionate Conservation¿ movement is gaining momentum through its promotion of ¿ethical¿ conservation practices based on self-proclaimed principles of ¿first-do-no-harm¿ and ¿individuals matter¿. We argue that the tenets of ¿Compassionate Conservation¿ are ideological - that is, they are not scientifically proven to improve conservation outcomes, yet are critical of the current methods that do. In this paper we envision a future with ¿Compassionate Conservation¿ and predict how this might affect global biodiversity conservation. Taken literally, ¿Compassionate Conservation¿ will deny current conservation practices such as captive breeding, introduced species control, biocontrol, conservation fencing, translocation, contraception, disease control and genetic introgression. Five mainstream conservation practices are used to illustrate the far-reaching and dire consequences for global biodiversity if governed by ¿Compassionate Conservation¿. We acknowledge the important role of animal welfare science in conservation practices but argue that ¿Compassionate Conservation¿ aligns more closely with animal liberation principles protecting individuals over populations. Ultimately we fear that a world of ¿Compassionate Conservation¿ could stymie the global conservation efforts required to meet international biodiversity targets derived from evidenced based practice, such as the Aichi targets developed by the Convention on Biological Diversity and adopted by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature and the United Nations.
|
Nova | |||||||||
2020 |
Witt RR, Beranek CT, Howell LG, Ryan SA, Clulow J, Jordan NR, et al., 'Real-time drone derived thermal imagery outperforms traditional survey methods for an arboreal forest mammal', PLOS ONE, 15 (2020) [C1]
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Nova | |||||||||
2020 |
Witt H, Witt R, Brisby K, 'Does Policy Practice Class Increase Social Work Students Planned Political Engagement?', Journal of Policy Practice and Research, 1 77-95 (2020) [C1]
|
||||||||||
2019 |
Hayward MW, Callen A, Allen BL, Ballard G, Broekhuis F, Bugir C, et al., 'Deconstructing compassionate conservation', Conservation Biology, 33 760-768 (2019) [C1] Compassionate conservation focuses on 4 tenets: first, do no harm; individuals matter; inclusivity of individual animals; and peaceful coexistence between humans and animals. Rece... [more] Compassionate conservation focuses on 4 tenets: first, do no harm; individuals matter; inclusivity of individual animals; and peaceful coexistence between humans and animals. Recently, compassionate conservation has been promoted as an alternative to conventional conservation philosophy. We believe examples presented by compassionate conservationists are deliberately or arbitrarily chosen to focus on mammals; inherently not compassionate; and offer ineffective conservation solutions. Compassionate conservation arbitrarily focuses on charismatic species, notably large predators and megaherbivores. The philosophy is not compassionate when it leaves invasive predators in the environment to cause harm to vastly more individuals of native species or uses the fear of harm by apex predators to terrorize mesopredators. Hindering the control of exotic species (megafauna, predators) in situ will not improve the conservation condition of the majority of biodiversity. The positions taken by so-called compassionate conservationists on particular species and on conservation actions could be extended to hinder other forms of conservation, including translocations, conservation fencing, and fertility control. Animal welfare is incredibly important to conservation, but ironically compassionate conservation does not offer the best welfare outcomes to animals and is often ineffective in achieving conservation goals. Consequently, compassionate conservation may threaten public and governmental support for conservation because of the limited understanding of conservation problems by the general public.
|
Nova | |||||||||
2018 |
Witt RR, Hinds LA, Rodger JC, 'Delayed return to estrus following treatment with the gonadotrophin-releasing hormone agonist, Lucrin® Depot, in the tammar wallaby.', Theriogenology, 115 108-116 (2018) [C1]
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Nova | |||||||||
2018 |
Witt RR, Rodger JJ, Rodger JC, 'Breeding in the fat-tailed dunnart following ovarian suppression with the gonadotrophin-releasing hormone agonist Lucrin® Depot', Reproduction, Fertility and Development, 30 507-518 (2018) [C1]
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Nova | |||||||||
2018 |
Witt RR, Rodger JC, 'Recent advances in tools and technologies for monitoring and controlling ovarian activity in marsupials', Theriogenology, 109 58-69 (2018) [C1]
|
Nova | |||||||||
2016 |
Witt RR, Forbes IR, Mcbain J, Rodger JC, 'Ovarian suppression in a marsupial following single treatment with a gonadotrophin-releasing hormone agonist in microspheres', Reproduction, Fertility and Development, 28 1964-1973 (2016) [C1] The effect of treatment with Lucrin Depot (1 month), a microsphere gonadotrophin-releasing hormone agonist preparation, was investigated in the fat-tailed dunnart (Sminthopsis cra... [more] The effect of treatment with Lucrin Depot (1 month), a microsphere gonadotrophin-releasing hormone agonist preparation, was investigated in the fat-tailed dunnart (Sminthopsis crassicaudata) as a potential strategy to synchronise cycling. The status of the ovaries (ovarian size, number and size of Graafian follicles and corpora lutea) and reproductive tract (weight, vascularity and muscularity) in twelve untreated females were assessed to establish the activity parameters for randomly selected cycling animals. Thirty-six females were treated with 1mgkg-1 (n=12), 10mgkg-1 (n=12) or 20mgkg-1 (n=12) Lucrin Depot. At 4, 6 and 8 weeks the reproductive tracts were assessed using the criteria developed in the untreated females. All of the females treated with 10mgkg-1 showed suppression at 4 weeks and 25% showed return of reproductive activity at 8 weeks. A dose of 1mgkg-1 did not appear to suppress reproductive activity and 20mgkg-1 gave equivocal results, with evidence of both suppression and activity. The results indicate that Lucrin Depot appears to be a promising agent to regulate and potentially synchronise breeding activity in the fat-tailed dunnart.
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Nova | |||||||||
Show 17 more journal articles |
Grants and Funding
Summary
Number of grants | 13 |
---|---|
Total funding | $1,113,994 |
Click on a grant title below to expand the full details for that specific grant.
20232 grants / $671,795
Towards Koala Translocation: Understanding the drivers of fine-scale koala density to inform conservation action$631,795
Funding body: Taronga Conservation Society Australia
Funding body | Taronga Conservation Society Australia |
---|---|
Project Team | Doctor Ryan Witt, Doctor Darren Southwell, Andrew Elphinstone, Rachael Schildkraut, Dr Justine O'Brien, Dr Neil Jordan, Un-named Student |
Scheme | Research Grants |
Role | Lead |
Funding Start | 2023 |
Funding Finish | 2026 |
GNo | G2300121 |
Type Of Funding | C3200 – Aust Not-for Profit |
Category | 3200 |
UON | Y |
Establishing koala abundance on Hunter Water Corporation managed tenure in the Port Stephens LGA$40,000
Funding body: Hunter Water Corporation
Funding body | Hunter Water Corporation |
---|---|
Project Team | Doctor Ryan Witt, Miss Shelby Ryan |
Scheme | Research Grant |
Role | Lead |
Funding Start | 2023 |
Funding Finish | 2024 |
GNo | G2300714 |
Type Of Funding | C2300 – Aust StateTerritoryLocal – Own Purpose |
Category | 2300 |
UON | Y |
20223 grants / $118,128
Statistical modelling and analysis of koala detection data from different survey methodologies.$62,858
Funding body: NSW Department of Planning and Environment
Funding body | NSW Department of Planning and Environment |
---|---|
Project Team | Doctor Darren Southwell, Doctor Chad Beranek, Miss Shelby Ryan, Doctor Ryan Witt |
Scheme | Research Project |
Role | Investigator |
Funding Start | 2022 |
Funding Finish | 2023 |
GNo | G2201279 |
Type Of Funding | C2400 – Aust StateTerritoryLocal – Other |
Category | 2400 |
UON | Y |
Koalas, genotyping, trackers, and drones: Using thermal imaging, novel VHF/GPS tracking technology and genotyping to understand post-release outcomes for rehabilitated koalas and support the recovery $49,900
Funding body: WIRES
Funding body | WIRES |
---|---|
Project Team | Doctor Ryan Witt, Doctor Chad Beranek, Miss Shelby Ryan, Dr Neil Jordan, Rob Appleby, Dr Donald Hudson |
Scheme | Research Grants Program |
Role | Lead |
Funding Start | 2022 |
Funding Finish | 2024 |
GNo | G2200233 |
Type Of Funding | C1700 - Aust Competitive - Other |
Category | 1700 |
UON | Y |
Optimising emerging drone technologies to accurately determine population density of koalas$5,370
Funding body: The Ecological Society of Australia Ltd (ESA)
Funding body | The Ecological Society of Australia Ltd (ESA) |
---|---|
Project Team | Doctor Ryan Witt, Emeritus Professor John Rodger, Associate Professor John Clulow, Dr Neil Jordan, Miss Shelby Ryan |
Scheme | Holsworth Wildlife Research Endowment |
Role | Lead |
Funding Start | 2022 |
Funding Finish | 2022 |
GNo | G2200357 |
Type Of Funding | C3300 – Aust Philanthropy |
Category | 3300 |
UON | Y |
20214 grants / $290,771
Drone monitoring of priority koala populations in fire-prone landscapes$247,951
Funding body: WWF-Australia
Funding body | WWF-Australia |
---|---|
Project Team | Doctor Ryan Witt, Associate Professor John Clulow, Doctor Neil Jordan, Shelby Ryan, Chad Beranek |
Scheme | Bushfire Regeneration Challenge |
Role | Lead |
Funding Start | 2021 |
Funding Finish | 2023 |
GNo | |
Type Of Funding | C3200 – Aust Not-for Profit |
Category | 3200 |
UON | N |
Optimising emerging drone technologies to accurately determine population density of koalas$19,757
Funding body: Australian Academy of Science
Funding body | Australian Academy of Science |
---|---|
Project Team | Miss Shelby Ryan, Miss Shelby Ryan, Associate Professor John Clulow, Doctor Ryan Witt, Dr Neil Jordan |
Scheme | The Margaret Middleton Fund for endangered Australian native vertebrate animals |
Role | Investigator |
Funding Start | 2021 |
Funding Finish | 2021 |
GNo | G2100802 |
Type Of Funding | C1700 - Aust Competitive - Other |
Category | 1700 |
UON | Y |
Using thermal drone surveys to quantify koala abundance and density at Lake Innes Nature Reserve (Port Macquarie, NSW)$13,063
Funding body: Mid North Coast Joint Organisation
Funding body | Mid North Coast Joint Organisation |
---|---|
Project Team | Doctor Ryan Witt |
Scheme | Research Grant |
Role | Lead |
Funding Start | 2021 |
Funding Finish | 2021 |
GNo | G2101157 |
Type Of Funding | C2400 – Aust StateTerritoryLocal – Other |
Category | 2400 |
UON | Y |
Koalas, dingoes and drones: using thermal imaging to establish detection probability of GPS collared dingoes and determine koala density in the Myall Lakes Region of NSW$10,000
Funding body: Royal Zoological Society of NSW
Funding body | Royal Zoological Society of NSW |
---|---|
Project Team | Doctor Ryan Witt, Dr Neil Jordan, Miss Shelby Ryan |
Scheme | Paddy Pallin Science Grant |
Role | Lead |
Funding Start | 2021 |
Funding Finish | 2023 |
GNo | G2101057 |
Type Of Funding | C3200 – Aust Not-for Profit |
Category | 3200 |
UON | Y |
20191 grants / $15,000
Engaging with a cryptic local icon: the threatened koala$15,000
Funding body: Department of Industry, Innovation and Science
Funding body | Department of Industry, Innovation and Science |
---|---|
Project Team | Lachlan Howell, Shelby Ryan, Chad Beranek |
Scheme | Communities Environment Program |
Role | Lead |
Funding Start | 2019 |
Funding Finish | 2020 |
GNo | |
Type Of Funding | Other Public Sector - Commonwealth |
Category | 2OPC |
UON | N |
20171 grants / $4,800
Development of an oestrous synchronisation method for assisted breeding and recovery of threatened rock-wallabies$4,800
Funding body: Equity Trustees Limited
Funding body | Equity Trustees Limited |
---|---|
Project Team | John Rodger; Ryan Witt |
Scheme | Holsworth Wildlife Research Endowment grant |
Role | Investigator |
Funding Start | 2017 |
Funding Finish | 2017 |
GNo | |
Type Of Funding | C3120 - Aust Philanthropy |
Category | 3120 |
UON | N |
20161 grants / $7,500
Developing artificial insemination technology for the recovery and genetic management of threatened and endangered rock wallabies$7,500
Funding body: Equity Trustees Limited
Funding body | Equity Trustees Limited |
---|---|
Project Team | John Rodger; Ryan Witt |
Scheme | Holsworth Wildlife Research Endowment grant |
Role | Investigator |
Funding Start | 2016 |
Funding Finish | 2016 |
GNo | |
Type Of Funding | C3120 - Aust Philanthropy |
Category | 3120 |
UON | N |
20151 grants / $6,000
Developing artificial insemination technology for the recovery and genetic management of threatened and endangered rock wallabies$6,000
Funding body: Equity Trustees Limited
Funding body | Equity Trustees Limited |
---|---|
Project Team | John Rodger; Ryan Witt |
Scheme | Holsworth Wildlife Research Endowment grant |
Role | Investigator |
Funding Start | 2015 |
Funding Finish | 2015 |
GNo | |
Type Of Funding | C3120 - Aust Philanthropy |
Category | 3120 |
UON | N |
Research Supervision
Number of supervisions
Current Supervision
Commenced | Level of Study | Research Title | Program | Supervisor Type |
---|---|---|---|---|
2023 | PhD | Understanding the Drivers of Fine-scale Koala (Phascolarctos Cinereus) Density to Inform Conservation Action | PhD (Environmental Sc), College of Engineering, Science and Environment, The University of Newcastle | Principal Supervisor |
Past Supervision
Year | Level of Study | Research Title | Program | Supervisor Type |
---|---|---|---|---|
2022 | PhD | Examining the Cost-Effectiveness of Emerging Technologies for More Effective Threatened Species Conservation | PhD (Environmental Sc), College of Engineering, Science and Environment, The University of Newcastle | Co-Supervisor |
Research Collaborations
The map is a representation of a researchers co-authorship with collaborators across the globe. The map displays the number of publications against a country, where there is at least one co-author based in that country. Data is sourced from the University of Newcastle research publication management system (NURO) and may not fully represent the authors complete body of work.
Country | Count of Publications | |
---|---|---|
Australia | 18 | |
United States | 5 | |
United Kingdom | 3 | |
Mexico | 3 | |
Namibia | 3 | |
More... |
News
News • 10 Aug 2023
Koala conservation heats up: drones used to thermally detect animals
Conservation scientists from the University of Newcastle are using heat-detecting drones to capture data on koala populations in Port Stephens LGA.
News • 13 Apr 2022
New model could help save koalas at a fraction of the price
Integrating frozen koala sperm into captive management programs is a crucial step to help save the endangered Australian species – a first-of-its-kind model reveals.
News • 10 Nov 2020
Researchers call on Port Stephens community to help save the koala
Port Stephens community members are working with scientists to collect information to help save koalas in the region.
News • 26 Jun 2020
Let’s fix Australia’s environment with any pandemic recovery aid – the Kiwis are doing it
New Zealand is pumping millions of dollars into environment projects as part of its COVID-19 recovery. Lachlan G. Howell, Associate Professor John Clulow, Emeritus Professor John Rodger, and Dr Ryan R. Witt, from the Faculty of Science say Australia's recovery plan seems more destructive than reconstructive.
Dr Ryan Witt
Positions
Postdoctoral Researcher
School of Environmental and Life Sciences
College of Engineering, Science and Environment
Casual Academic
School of Environmental and Life Sciences
College of Engineering, Science and Environment
Focus area
Environmental Science and Management
Contact Details
ryan.witt@newcastle.edu.au | |
Mobile | +61421606222 |
Links |
Personal webpage Research Networks |
Office
Room | BLG10 |
---|---|
Building | Biology Building |
Location | Callaghan University Drive Callaghan, NSW 2308 Australia |