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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

  • Bilby

    Stronger together: Bilby conservation efforts enhanced by Indigenous knowledge

    One of the nation's most iconic and at-risk critters could benefit by combining Indigenous knowledge with western survey methods, according to a new study led by Charles Darwin University (CDU) in collaboration with the North Tanami Rangers and Traditional Owners from the community of Lajamanu.

    Read more
  • Charles Darwin University’s Professor Sunil Kadri (pictured right) is working with Nha Trang University’s Institute for Aquaculture and Can Tho University’s College of Aquaculture and Fisheries to drive better welfare outcomes for juvenile pompano. Picture: Pompano Welfare Project Team, Institute of Aquaculture, Nha Trang University

    Changing the tide: New project aims to shift attitudes around fish welfare practices

    Fish are often overlooked when the term “animal welfare” is used, but a new project is working to ensure happy fins are met with the same enthusiasm as cage-free eggs or grass-fed beef.

    Read more
  • The vessels were recently freshened up with wraps inspired by local wildlife.

    New designs hit the water for environmental research and maritime training

    RIEL's three research vessels have recently been freshened up with a clean, new look in readiness for the coming years. The new boat wraps not only provide long-term protection to the hulls and fulfil special signage requirements for research vessels, but have also been designed with a deep respect for local wildlife in mind

    Read more
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