James Cook

Professor James Cook is a Theme Leader for Plants, Animals and Interactions at the Hawkesbury Institute for the Environment (HIE) at Western Sydney University. He holds the academic rank of Professor and leads research focused on ecology, evolution, and symbiosis, with particular emphasis on pollination systems and insect ecology.

Professor Cook received his BA in Zoology from Oxford University and his PhD in Evolutionary Biology from Imperial College London. His previous academic appointments include positions at La Trobe University, Imperial College London, and the University of Reading.

Professor Cook's research interests lie at the intersection of ecology, evolution, and symbiosis, with particular emphasis on pollination systems and insect-microbe interactions. His work spans multiple scales from molecular to ecosystem levels, investigating how species interactions shape biological communities. He is particularly renowned for his expertise in fig-pollinator mutualisms and stingless bee biology. His research integrates field studies, laboratory experiments, and molecular approaches to address fundamental questions in evolutionary ecology while also addressing applied challenges in agricultural pollination and conservation biology.

Analysis of Professor Cook's recent publications reveals a strong focus on pollination ecology and insect-microbe symbioses. His work spans both fundamental research on evolutionary processes and applied studies addressing agricultural challenges. A significant portion of his recent work examines stingless bees as potential managed pollinators for Australian horticulture, alongside investigations into alternative pollinators beyond honey bees. His research increasingly incorporates molecular methods to understand microbial communities and their impacts on host biology. There's also a growing emphasis on climate change impacts on pollination systems and the development of resilient pollination strategies for future agricultural systems.

• Natural Environment Research Council (NERC, UK) College Member (2007-2010)
• Royal Entomological Society Symbiosis Special Interest Group Convenor (2005-2012)
• Editorial Board Member, Journal of Evolutionary Biology (2005-2008)
• NERC Advanced Research Fellow (1998-2003)
• SERC Research Fellow (1993-1995)
• Royal 1851 Commission Research Fellow (1991-1993)
• Australian Entomological Society Conservation Committee Member (2017-present)
• Invited collaboration with Professor Wan-Jin Liao's group at Beijing Normal University

Professor Cook currently leads multiple significant research projects focused on pollination services for Australian horticulture. His grant portfolio includes projects on stingless bee husbandry, alternative pollinators including flies, and pollinator health. He collaborates extensively with researchers across Australia and internationally, with projects spanning from basic research on fig-wasp mutualisms to applied studies on crop pollination. Professor Cook has authored over 70 research articles and six book chapters, demonstrating sustained research productivity throughout his career.

Professor Cook's research involves extensive field, laboratory, and glasshouse work, with a strong emphasis on molecular methods. His work connects with collaborators across Australia, India, China, France, the UK, and the USA, creating a robust international research network focused on pollination ecology and insect symbioses. His leadership in the Plants, Animals and Interactions research theme at HIE provides a framework for integrating fundamental ecological research with practical applications for sustainable agriculture and conservation.