My research focuses on the study of the physical drivers of coastal processes and hazards, including how nearshore processes govern coastal flooding and erosion risk that threaten coastal populations and infrastructure, as well as how these processes are modified by coastal ecosystems. A major area of research is also on developing novel solutions to mitigate wave-driven coastal hazard risk, with a particular emphasis on integration of natural and nature-based features. My research utilises a wide range of field studies, laboratory (physical modelling) experiments and numerical models.

I joined UWA in 2007, after completing a PhD in Civil and Environmental Engineering in 2005 from Stanford University and following a postdoctoral research and lecturing position at Stanford. Between 2012-2016, I received an ARC Future Fellowship that focused on improving predictions of nearshore processes that govern coastal hazards worldwide, using Western Australia’s extensive coastline as a case study to investigate the coastal dynamics of diverse wave- and tide-dominated coastal systems. From 2014-2020 I served as Editor for the Journal of Geophysical Research – Oceans. My research has been well-supported by a number of sources, including from the ARC, State Government, international funding agencies and through collaborative projects with a wide range of industry partners.

I have published over 130 papers in international journals and have contributed to a number of international initiatives that advance nature-based solutions for coastal protection, including as Lead Author for the Reefs chapter of an international guidelines manual developed through a consortium led by the US Army Corps of Engineers.

• Nearshore oceanography
• Coastal engineering
• Nature-based solutions for coastal protection
• Ocean wave dyanmics
• Coastal sediment transport
• Benthic boundary layer and canopy flow dynamics
• Biophysical interactions in marine systems (especially coral reefs)
• Marine renewable energy

Co-Lead, Coastal and Offshore Engineering Laboratory

Deputy Head of School, Oceans Graduate School

Program Leader, ARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies

Co-Program Leader (Oceanography), Marine Energy Research Australia

I have openings for PhD students to study coastal processes in systems that include coral reefs, rocky reefs and sandy beaches along Western Australia. Potential PhD projects may be related to the current projects listed above, however, I may be able to accommodate additional projects in other areas. If you are interested in working with me, please send me an email with your C.V. and Master/Honours degree transcript as an attachment.

I welcome applications from Australian or international students with a strong background in either science or engineering, together with an enthusiasm for the coastal ocean. Funding opportunities for qualified Ph.D. students are available.

OCEN4010 Ocean Observational Methods and Modelling

This unit covers advanced observational methods and analysis techniques that are commonly used to assess oceanographic processes from the deep to nearshore ocean, including the dynamics of surface wave fields, ocean currents and turbulence, sediment transport and morphological changes. Topics will include principles for designing field observational programs, quality control of raw data, and analysis of oceanographic time-series and spatial data sets using the Python programming language. The unit will also cover common models used to predict oceanographic processes, including an overview of different classes of numerical models, governing principles, model requirements and validation.

ENVT3307 Oceanography

This unit covers an introduction to the physics of the ocean; physical properties of sea water; global distribution of temperature and salinity; dynamics governing motion in the ocean; barotropic and baroclinic ocean circulation; heat and salt budgets; water mass formation; major ocean biogeochemical cycles; the dynamics of coastal primary to secondary biological production; and the interaction of ocean processes with benthic biological communities.

SCIE2204 Marine Systems

This unit provides an introduction to the multidisciplinary aspects of marine science. Using the framework of the local Western Australia (WA) marine environment, it outlines how the multidisciplinary aspects of marine science are essential in understanding and managing such an ecosystem. Aspects covered include oceanography, geology and geomorphology and marine biology. Students obtain an introduction to the multidisciplinary aspects of marine science; and develop an understanding of the principles of oceanography, geology and geomorphology and how marine organisms interact with the environment.