Nicola Nelson

Professor Nicola Nelson serves as the Dean of the Faculty of Science and Engineering at Victoria University of Wellington, where she is also a Professor in the School of Biological Sciences. Her leadership encompasses the Schools of Biological Sciences, Chemical and Physical Sciences, Geography, Environment and Earth Sciences, Psychology, and Science in Society. With over two decades of academic service at Victoria University, she has established herself as a leading figure in conservation biology, particularly focused on New Zealand's unique reptilian fauna.

Dr. Nelson's educational journey began with a BSc in Plant and Microbial Sciences from the University of Canterbury, followed by a Master of Conservation Science and PhD at Victoria University of Wellington. Her doctoral research investigated fitness effects of temperature-dependent sex determination in tuatara, building on her Master's work examining tuatara translocation success.

Her research interests center on reptile ecology and evolution, with particular emphasis on tuatara (Sphenodon punctatus) and New Zealand lizards. Nelson's work spans population ecology, conservation biology, and the effects of temperature on reptile biology. Her recent publications demonstrate a sophisticated integration of microbiome analysis, reproductive physiology, and conservation applications for these evolutionarily significant species. She has pioneered research on tuatara gut microbiota across New Zealand's latitudinal gradient, revealing biogeographic patterns and environmental influences on these ancient reptiles.

Nelson's scholarly contributions include numerous high-impact publications examining reptile conservation in urban environments, translocation success metrics, and the reproductive biology of tuatara. Her research program consistently bridges fundamental ecological questions with practical conservation applications, particularly regarding New Zealand's endemic species facing habitat loss and climate change.

As an academic leader, Nelson has supervised multiple Masters and PhD students, with recent projects focusing on enhancing translocation success of endemic lizards and tuatara nesting ecology. Her administrative contributions extend beyond her deanship to include ministerial appointments and representation on national and international conservation bodies.

Her laboratory and field research teams work across multiple New Zealand sites, investigating reptile conservation challenges through integrated approaches that combine ecological monitoring, physiological assessments, and community engagement. Current research directions emphasize climate change impacts on reptile populations and the development of evidence-based conservation strategies for New Zealand's unique herpetofauna.