Catherine Pickering

Professor Catherine Pickering is a leading academic in plant ecology and environmental science at Griffith University's School of Environment and Science. She specializes in climate change impacts, alpine ecosystems, urban ecology, and conservation strategies. Her research group addresses human-nature interactions globally, with projects in Australia, USA, South Africa, Nepal, and beyond. She teaches Urban Ecology and Botany and has held leadership roles, including Deputy Head of School (Research) and Chair of Griffith's Biodiversity Working Group. Her work emphasizes applied solutions for biodiversity conservation, leveraging social media and community engagement.

Education: BSc (Hons) and PhD from Australian National University. Awards include the 2024 Pro Vice Chancellor's Sustainability Award and 2021 Research Excellence Award for Supervision. She advises on ecological management for councils and governments, focusing on urban parks and protected areas. Over 25 funded research projects highlight her expertise in recreation ecology, conservation strategies, and climate adaptation.

Recent research trends focus on LiDAR-based biomass modeling, mountain biking impacts, and social media analytics for tourism and conservation. Her 70+ students and 265+ publications reflect her influence in ecology and environmental policy. She promotes campus biodiversity through Griffith's Biodiversity website and works with communities to enhance urban green spaces.