Michael Noad

Michael Noad is Professor at the University of Queensland and Director of the Centre for Marine Science. With BVSc (UQ) and PhD (Sydney) in humpback whale acoustics, he holds joint appointments in Veterinary Science and Marine Science, previously serving as Academic Director of Moreton Bay Research Station.

Research investigates marine mammal behavioral ecology through bioacoustic monitoring and population studies. Key foci include humpback whale song evolution, noise pollution impacts, cultural transmission in cetaceans, and conservation physiology. Fieldwork spans Antarctic to tropical waters.

Recent publications examine stress biomarkers in sentinel species, anthropogenic noise effects on vocal behavior, and cultural dimensions of whale conservation. Studies integrate acoustic tracking, stable isotope analysis, and gene expression profiling.

Noad's findings inform policies on seismic surveying, Antarctic whaling regulations, and marine protected area management. As Centre Director, he oversees interdisciplinary marine research initiatives across UQ faculties.