Hugo B. Harrison

Hugo B. Harrison is a Research Fellow affiliated with the ARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies at James Cook University. He holds a PhD from James Cook University and l’Ecole Pratique des Hautes Etudes in France. His research focuses on molecular ecology and evolution of coral reefs, particularly population dynamics of reef fishes, larval dispersal, and hybridization processes. Harrison has contributed significantly to understanding the ecological roles of marine reserves through genetic tracking studies.

Education: PhD in Marine Biology (James Cook University & École Pratique des Hautes Études), Postdoctoral Research Fellow (2013–2015) with the ARC Centre.

Key Research Themes: Molecular approaches to coral reef fish ecology, larval dispersal mechanisms, conservation genetics of marine species, and the impact of marine protected areas on fisheries sustainability. His work combines field studies with advanced genetic techniques to address ecosystem management challenges.

Current Projects: Investigating marine reserve network benefits for Great Barrier Reef fish populations and analyzing genetic drivers behind crown-of-thorns starfish outbreaks. Media engagement includes studies on climate change impacts and coral reef resilience.

Labs/Teams: Primary affiliation with the ARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies, collaborating with institutions like AIMS and international universities. Active in interdisciplinary research teams focused on coral reef conservation.