Rachael Gross

Dr Rachael Gross is a Postdoctoral Fellow and Associate Lecturer at the Australian National University (ANU), affiliated with the Australian National Centre for the Public Awareness of Science and the Fenner School of Environment & Society. She holds a PhD in interdisciplinary science and natural resource management, focusing on African elephant conservation and climate change. Her work bridges decolonial pedagogy, environmental justice, and Indigenous resource management, emphasizing geospatial technology to empower communities.

Rachael earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology with minors in Evolution and Ecology, and Biodiversity Conservation and Management, followed by an Honours degree in Environmental Management. She completed her PhD at ANU, exploring decolonial management of African elephants in Southern Africa under climate change.

Her research interests center on decolonizing environmental science, particularly through decolonial pedagogy and ontology. She investigates Indigenous communities' relationships with nature, advocating for geospatial tools to repatriate land and manage wildlife while addressing anthropogenic challenges. Key areas include environmental and social justice, GIS cultural mapping, and global frameworks for decolonizing protected areas.

Her publications highlight colonial biases in environmental research, community-driven conservation strategies, and climate impacts on African elephants, using systematic reviews and case studies to advocate for equitable practices.

Though no scientific awards are explicitly mentioned, her work aligns with advancing ethical conservation practices. No advising or grant information is provided in the text. She is part of ANU's research networks focused on public science awareness and environmental sustainability.