Jen Middleton

Jen Middleton is an Adjunct Research Fellow at the UWA School of Agriculture and Environment, The University of Western Australia. She holds a PhD (2021) and BSc (2015) in Zoology from UWA. Her research focuses on microbial ecology, biogeochemical cycles, and biotechnology applications in ecosystems. She co-directs Ooid Scientific, a science communication and research consulting firm, balancing consulting and academic roles.

Key research areas include microbial community dynamics in freshwater systems, urban stream restoration, and biotechnology for waste management. Current projects involve Black Soldier Fly technology for agricultural waste conversion, constructed wetland functions, and sustainable farming practices across Australian industries.

Her work contributes to UN Sustainable Development Goals related to environmental sustainability and climate action. She collaborates globally on topics like microbial responses to climate change and ecosystem resilience. Recent grants include projects on intensive marron farming and wetland benefits, funded by AgriFutures Australia and Perth Region NRM.