Michael Renton

Michael Renton is an Associate Professor in the School of Biological Sciences at the University of Western Australia (UWA). His research focuses on computational simulation modelling of plants in complex biological, agricultural, and ecological systems. This includes studying herbicide resistance in weeds, competition between plant species, seed bank dynamics, climate change impacts, and biosecurity strategies. He holds a joint appointment with UWA and has collaborated with CSIRO Ecosystem Sciences. His roles include teaching applied statistics and modelling for ecology, agriculture, and the environment.

• Education:
  • Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Applied Mathematics, UWA
  • PhD in Functional-Structural Plant Modelling, University of Queensland
• Research Interests: Ecological and agricultural modelling, functional-structural plant models (FSPMs), herbicide resistance evolution, biosecurity, and climate change adaptation.
• Teaching: Coordinates and teaches courses in data analysis, ecological modelling, Australian vegetation, and agricultural systems.
• Grants: Over 48 grants from bodies like ARC and GRDC, focusing on restoration, crop protection, and biosecurity.
• Labs/Teams: Involved in interdisciplinary projects with CSIRO, DPIRD, and international collaborators, addressing global challenges in agriculture and conservation.

His work contributes to UN SDGs 2 (Zero Hunger), 13 (Climate Action), and 15 (Life on Land), emphasizing sustainable land use and biodiversity preservation.