Matthew Symonds

Matthew Symonds is Associate Professor and Associate Head of School (Burwood) at Deakin University's School of Life and Environmental Sciences. He holds honorary positions at the University of Melbourne and is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Edinburgh.

Education:

• Ph.D. University of Cambridge (1996-2000)
• MPhil University of Nottingham (1995)
• BA(Hons) Natural Sciences, University of Cambridge (1991-1994)

Research integrates evolutionary ecology, phylogenetics, and climate adaptation biology. Key projects examine: 1) Climate-driven morphological changes in birds ('shape-shifting' responses), 2) Thermal adaptation rules (Bergmann's/Allen's rules), 3) Evolution of insect chemical signals and antennae, and 4) Anti-predator behavior evolution.

Publications demonstrate expertise in phylogenetic comparative methods, avian macroecology, and thermal adaptation. Recent work has received media coverage for documenting climate-related changes in animal morphology. Current ARC-funded projects investigate evolutionary responses to climate change and anti-predator adaptations in threatened birds.

Awards include Vice-Chancellor's Prize for International Collaboration (2021) and election as Fellow of the Royal Society of Edinburgh (2013).