Jane Catford

Prof Jane Catford is a Professor at the Fenner School of Environment & Society, Australian National University. Her research focuses on ecological dynamics, invasion biology, and global environmental change. She holds a PhD in Ecology from the University of Melbourne (2009) and dual Bachelor's degrees from Monash University (2003).

• Education: PhD in Ecology (University of Melbourne, 2009), BA (Politics) and BSc with Honours in Ecology/Geography (Monash University, 2003), Graduate Certificate (University of Southampton, 2018)

Her research investigates global grassland ecosystems, plant community responses to environmental change, and biological invasions. Key themes include forb diversity, nutrient enrichment impacts, herbivore-plant interactions, and restoration strategies. Recent work highlights the role of large herbivores in mitigating biodiversity loss and the complex relationships between plant biomass, climate, and nutrient availability.

Her publications analyze global grassland networks, invasive species functional traits, and long-term restoration outcomes. Collaborations span over 30 international researchers in projects like the Nutrient Network (NutNet). Her findings contribute to ecological theory and practical conservation strategies.