Damien Higgins

Professor Damien Higgins is a leading academic at the Sydney School of Veterinary Science within The University of Sydney, specializing in Pathobiology and Wildlife Health. His research integrates wildlife disease ecology, immunopathology, and conservation biology to address threats from habitat fragmentation and emerging infectious diseases in wildlife, particularly koalas.

• BVSc, M Vet Stud (Wild Animal Medicine & Husbandry), PhD
• Director of the Koala Health Hub (since 2014)
• Director of Veterinary Pathology Diagnostic Services

Research Interests encompass disease ecology in fragmented habitats, koala immunogenetics, retroviral infections, and environmental toxicology of eucalyptus toxins. Key projects include Chlamydia pecorum dynamics, Koala Retrovirus (KoRV) impacts on immunity, and hookworm interactions in Australian sea lions.

Scientific Awards:

• 2006 Barry Munday Recognition Award (Wildlife Disease Association)

Teaching includes courses on general pathology, wildlife disease ecology, and threatened species management. He supervises PhD and Research Masters students and leads collaborations with 200+ stakeholders in government, academia, and conservation groups.