Mike Gardner

Professor Mike Gardner is an Associate Professor in Biodiversity/Ecology at Flinders University, affiliated with the College of Science and Engineering and Biological Sciences department. He retains links with the South Australian Museum. His research focuses on host-parasite co-evolution, conservation of endangered lizards, and molecular ecology.

• Education:
  • PhD in Molecular Ecology (2000) from Flinders University
  • BSc Applied Science (1991) and Honours in Life Science (1992) from Queensland University of Technology

Research Interests: Investigating genetic diversity in natural populations, co-evolution between hosts and parasites, and conservation strategies for endangered species like the pygmy bluetongue lizard. He uses molecular genetics and genomic techniques to address ecological questions.

Recent Contributions: Recent work includes studies on tick infestation dynamics in lizards, climate change impacts on reptile translocation, and genomic adaptation in squamates.

Awards:

• Bradshaw Medal (2023)
• Flinders University Early Career Researcher Award (2009, 2010)

Teaching/Advising: Coordinates Honours in Natural Sciences and teaches courses on biodiversity, conservation genetics, and grant writing. Supervises research in molecular ecology and lizard behavior.

Labs/Teams: Collaborates with the South Australian Regional Facility for Molecular Ecology and Evolution and maintains ties with the South Australian Museum.