Daniel Ierodiaconou

Professor Daniel Ierodiaconou is a marine ecologist at Deakin University, where he serves as Professor in Marine Science and leads the Deakin Marine Mapping Group. He acts as Victorian Node Leader for the Integrated Marine Observing System (IMOS), Board Director for the Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority, and Coastal Lead Scientist for the CoastRI Initiative. His work combines multi-disciplinary approaches to advance marine ecosystem-based management.

• Doctor of Philosophy, Deakin University
• Bachelor of Science (Aquatic Science), Deakin University
• Bachelor of Science (Fisheries Management & Aquaculture), Deakin University

Daniel's research focuses on Benthic Habitat Mapping, Marine Protected Areas, and Coastal Process Monitoring. His work integrates Remote Sensing, Image Classification, and Change Detection techniques to inform marine conservation and climate adaptation strategies. Recent publications highlight advancements in Seafloor Habitat Classification, Coastal Erosion Modeling, and Seagrass Restoration.

Scientific awards include:

• 2020 Eureka Prize for Innovation in Citizen Science
• 2020 Victorian Coastal Award for Innovative Applied Research
• 2018 Victorian Coastal Award for Partnership Research
• 2009 Tall Poppy Award

Daniel supervises 10 current doctoral students and has advised 16 PhD completions. His grants portfolio exceeds $7 million, including a $5 million NCRIS-funded CoastRI Coastal Monitoring Network. He specializes in integrating Geospatial Technologies with Marine Conservation through his leadership in citizen science drone programs and Victoria's first wave buoy network.