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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 2023 (PDF, 4.48 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

  • Dr Ruth Patterson is leading a joint scientific and industry proposal to establish a global USV network within the Global Ocean Observing System.

    Keeping us current: Push for global network of autonomous surface craft

    Uncrewed surface vehicles could unlock our ocean’s deepest secrets and improve weather forecasting, with plans to develop a global network of this technology set to enhance data collection in previously uncharted waters.  

    Read more
  • The hybrid 2-stroke engine drone will be adapted to deliver medical supplies on the battlefield.

    Battle-ready medical drones to join Army’s ranks

    A new drone delivery project led by Charles Darwin University (CDU) aims to revolutionise healthcare in modern warfare.

    Read more
  • A young woman takes a selfie with two women and two men behind her. They are on a beach.

    First Nations and CDU research dives deeper into plight of Northern Australia’s turtles, whales and dolphins

    Scientists from Charles Darwin University (CDU) are conducting pioneering research on turtles and cetaceans in Australia’s northernmost marine park, advancing conservation and sustainability efforts in the Northern Territory.

    Read more
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