Mike Van Keulen

Mike Van Keulen is the Dean of the School of Environmental and Conservation Sciences at Murdoch University, where he also holds the rank of Associate Professor in Plant Sciences and Marine Biology. He directs the Coral Bay Research Station and is affiliated with the Harry Butler Institute and the Centre for Sustainable Aquatic Ecosystems. His expertise spans marine plant ecophysiology, coral reef ecology, and seagrass restoration, with fieldwork in Western Australia, Ningaloo Reef, and Southeast Asia.

Education:

• BSc (Environmental Science), Murdoch University (1981–1985)
• BSc(Hons) (Marine Biology), Murdoch University (1986)
• PhD (Marine Ecology), Murdoch University (1998)

Research Interests: Dr. Van Keulen focuses on seagrass rehabilitation, coral reef health, and marine wildlife conservation. His work emphasizes ecological dynamics in high-latitude reefs, genetic connectivity of marine species, and the impacts of human activities on coastal ecosystems. He has pioneered seagrass transplantation methods and contributed to understanding bioerosion processes and manta ray migration patterns.

Advising & Grants: While no student names are listed, his research has been supported by grants focusing on Ningaloo Reef biodiversity, seagrass restoration, and coral reef resilience. Collaborations include studies on Drupella cornus breeding, Asparagopsis cultivation for methane reduction, and devilray aggregation behaviors.

Labs & Teams: Leads the Coral Bay Research Station, a Murdoch University facility conducting field studies in marine ecology and conservation. Engages in interdisciplinary projects with the Harry Butler Institute to address aquatic ecosystem challenges.