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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Researchers have fire in the belly for savanna burning
The scope of Charles Darwin University’s research into savanna fire management and the carbon industry was on show at the recent Savanna Fire Forum.
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Inaugural national fire report highlights extent of ‘second largest’ fire year in the past decade
An inaugural report from Australia's most comprehensive and detailed fire mapping database has found 2025 to be the second largest fire year in the past decade, driven by severe weather and storm-related ignitions.
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AI-powered disease prediction to improve catfish production
Artificial Intelligence will be harnessed to detect disease outbreaks in striped catfish ponds in Vietnam's Mekong Delta, in a new international project to help safeguard the country's aquaculture industry.
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