Why choose RIEL?
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'Outstanding performance' in environmental science and management, and ecology
2018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA) ranking: 5
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Performance above world standard in ecological applications
2018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA) ranking: 4
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RIEL is ranked ‘High’ in engagement, impact and approach to impact
2018 Engagement and Impact assessment (EI) ranking: High
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
Our research areas
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.
RIEL news
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Chatty batty: Research explores dialect formation in ghost bats
Accents are usually thought of as a human trait, indicating where a person has grown up or the communities they belong – and new research shows the same dialects can also occur in Australia’s largest carnivorous bat.
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Reasons for illegal fishing “more nuanced” than previously thought, international research shows
A resurgence of illegal fishing in northern Australian waters is cause for environmental, biosecurity and social concern, and new research suggests the causes of this activity are increasingly complex.
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Australia mapped into global sharks and rays database
A global database documenting the location of critical habitats for sharks, rays, and chimaeras has recently expanded to include Australia, with years of extensive research by Charles Darwin University contributing to this crucial digital record.
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