Brendan Kelaher

Professor Brendan Kelaher is a marine biologist with over 20 years of experience at Southern Cross University, where he serves as Chief Remote Pilot and Chair of the Animal Care and Ethics Committee. His work integrates drone technology with marine ecology to address critical challenges in coastal ecosystems and climate change adaptation.

With a BSc (Hons) and PhD from the University of Sydney, his research spans marine wildlife monitoring, 4D habitat mapping, fisheries biology, and cloud brightening to prevent coral bleaching. He teaches Marine Megafauna and Drone Technology units in the Bachelor of Science program.

His recent publications highlight advancements in drone-based marine monitoring, plastic pollution impacts on macroalgal decomposition, and climate engineering for reef preservation. Thematic keywords include Marine Ecology, Climate Change Mitigation, and Drone Technology, with sub_fields like Shark Behavior Analysis and Plastic-Biodegradation Interactions.

• Outstanding Teaching Award (2021)
• Senior Researcher Award for Research Excellence (2022)
• Outstanding Teaching Excellence Award (2023)

He supervises students in marine wildlife monitoring, drone habitat mapping, and climate change adaptation research. His affiliations include the National Marine Science Centre and Faculty of Science and Engineering at Southern Cross University.