Peter Harrison

Professor Peter Harrison is the founding Director of the Marine Ecology Research Centre and the SCU Whale and Dolphin Research Centre at Southern Cross University. With over 35 years of experience, he specializes in coral reproduction ecology and coral larval restoration, conducting research across the Great Barrier Reef, eastern Australia, and globally in Japan, Micronesia, French Polynesia, and Antarctica.

• Education: BSc(Hons) and PhD from James Cook University
• Awards: Recipient of the 2022 Outstanding Contribution to Impact Award and 2015 Whitley Commendation

His research focuses on global coral reproduction patterns, reef rehabilitation, and marine protected areas. Recent publications highlight innovations in coral hybridization, larval feeding protocols, and hydrodynamic modeling for restoration scalability. He has secured over $11 million in grants and supervised 50+ postgraduate students.

• Scientific Awards:
  • Outstanding Contribution to Impact, Southern Cross University (2022)
  • Whitley Commendation (2015)
  • Australian Citation for Student Learning (2009)

As a leader in coral reef conservation, Harrison's work integrates field research, community engagement, and advanced technologies like uncrewed maritime systems. He advocates for context-specific management actions and has contributed to global frameworks for coral restoration best practices.