Craig Liddicoat

Craig Liddicoat is a Research Fellow in the Department of Biological Sciences at Flinders University, affiliated with the College of Science and Engineering. He conducts interdisciplinary research at the intersection of environmental microbiomes, restoration ecology, and human health, with a focus on DNA-based environmental surveys. He is a member of Dr. Martin Breed’s research lab and contributes to the 'People, Cities & Nature' program in Aotearoa New Zealand.

His educational background includes:

• PhD in Bioscience (Biodiversity, Environmental Microbiomes and Human Health), University of Adelaide (awarded 2019)
• Bachelor of Environmental Science
• Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical, First Class Honours)

Liddicoat's research centers on understanding how soil microbial communities influence ecosystem and human health, particularly in the context of post-mining restoration and urban greening. He applies genomics and digital soil mapping techniques to assess microbiome health and inform restoration strategies. His work supports several UN Sustainable Development Goals, including those related to health, sustainable cities, and life on land.

His recent publications (2024–2025) emphasize the role of soil microbiota in ecosystem restoration, microbial community assembly in plant systems, bioenergetic profiling of microbiomes, and predictive modeling of native flora distributions. These works span journals such as Biological Reviews, Science of The Total Environment, and Ecology and Evolution, indicating a strong trend toward integrative, solution-oriented environmental science.

His scientific awards include:

• Bradshaw Medal (2023)
• University Doctoral Research Medal, University of Adelaide (2019)
• School of Biological Sciences Postgraduate Academic Achievement Award, University of Adelaide (2019)

Liddicoat has extensive experience in natural resource management and has contributed to national digital soil assessment initiatives through TERN and the Australian Collaborative Land Evaluation Program. Though no formal students are listed, he collaborates widely across disciplines, including public health and data science. He also holds an adjunct position as Senior Fellow in the School of Public Health at the University of Adelaide. His research is supported by robust publication output and external recognition, indicating active grant engagement and collaborative leadership.

He is a key contributor to research networks focused on environmental health, microbial ecology, and sustainable land use, operating within interdisciplinary teams at Flinders University and beyond.