Leonie Barner

Professor Leonie Barner is a Principal Research Fellow at QUT's School of Chemistry & Physics and former inaugural director of the Centre for a Waste-Free World (2020–2024). She co-leads the Bioadhesive Group, focusing on marine environment restoration through materials science. Her expertise spans polymer chemistry, circular economy strategies, and life cycle assessments. She holds a PhD in Physical Chemistry from Georg-August-Universität Göttingen (1998), specializing in reaction kinetics.

Research interests include circular chemistry, sustainable materials, and environmental policy. She has led projects funded by Australian Competitive Grants, including nanoparticle-driven microsphere synthesis and nitroxide-based infection control. Awards include the 2024 National RACI Chemical Service Citation and roles in major research initiatives like the Reef Restoration and Adaptation Program.

As an advocate for sustainability, Barner explores Industry 4.0’s role in circular transitions and advises on policy for waste reduction. Her work bridges disciplines, emphasizing interdisciplinary collaboration across academia and industry sectors.