Laura Ryan

Laura Ryan is a Research Fellow in Comparative Neurobiology at the School of Natural Sciences, Macquarie University. Her research focuses on visual physiology and sensory ecology, with particular emphasis on shark vision and marine conservation. She collaborates extensively with researchers like N. Hart and L. Tosetto on projects related to wildlife conservation and shark deterrent technologies.

Ryan's research spans multiple areas of sensory biology and marine ecology. She investigates how visual systems function in different species, from sharks to Australian stingless bees. Her work on shark vision has revealed important insights about cone monochromacy in galeomorph sharks and how counterillumination can reduce shark bites. She takes a sensory approach to animal management and conservation, particularly in Australian contexts.

Her recent publications demonstrate a strong focus on applying sensory biology to practical conservation challenges. Ryan's work bridges fundamental research on visual physiology with applied conservation outcomes, particularly in marine environments. She has contributed to understanding how substrate color affects marine ecosystems and how electrical shark deterrents can be optimized.

Ryan is actively involved in multiple research projects, including 'Understanding lightscapes for wildlife and healthy urban ecosystems' (2025) and 'Revolutionizing how we assess the development of electrical shark deterrents' (2025). Her collaborations extend across institutions and disciplines, reflecting the interdisciplinary nature of her work in sensory ecology and conservation biology.