Melanie Bishop

Melanie Bishop is an Associate Professor in the School of Natural Sciences at Macquarie University, affiliated with the Marine Research Centre and Smart Green Cities Research Centre. Her research focuses on coastal ecosystems, particularly engineering interventions to restore biodiversity in degraded marine environments. She co-leads the Living Seawalls Program and collaborates closely with the NSW oyster industry to rehabilitate shellfish reefs using innovative substrates like starch-based mesh. Her work emphasizes the ecological and economic benefits of restoring oyster reefs for shoreline stabilization and water quality.

Dr. Bishop has received numerous awards, including the 2022 Biodiversity Award from the Banksia Foundation and recognition for her contribution to the Living Seawalls initiative. Her research spans topics like habitat complexity, marine urbanization impacts, and stakeholder engagement in eco-engineering projects. She has led over 48 research projects and published 181 articles, with a focus on coastal ecology, restoration biology, and applied marine science.

Her current projects include Living Boulders for marine life revival, hybrid living shorelines, and global port light regime studies. She has pioneered the use of artificial light and habitat structures to enhance biodiversity on marine infrastructure. Dr. Bishop’s work highlights the intersection of ecological restoration, urban design, and sustainable coastal management.