Scott McManus

Scott McManus is a Lecturer in Spatial Science at Charles Sturt University, affiliated with the School of Agricultural, Environmental and Veterinary Sciences. He is an active academic researcher and educator, contributing to interdisciplinary studies that bridge data science, geostatistics, and Indigenous knowledge systems.

• PhD in Data Science, Charles Sturt University (2022)
• Graduate Certificate in Applied Statistics, CSU (2017)
• Graduate Diploma in Applied Science (Information Science), CSU (2005)
• Graduate Diploma in Archaeological Heritage, University of New England (2004)
• B.App.Sci in Applied Geology, CSU (1994)

Scott's research focuses on the application of data science and machine learning in environmental and health contexts, with a strong emphasis on ethical AI, digital data sovereignty, and responsible use of data when working with First Nations communities. His work integrates Western scientific methods with Indigenous methodologies, particularly in conservation efforts such as koala habitat protection and mangrove ecosystem recovery.

His recent publications and research outputs (23 total) demonstrate a consistent trend in merging geospatial analytics, Bayesian uncertainty modeling, and deep learning with ethical and cultural frameworks. Key areas include fire impact on coastal vegetation, river blockage detection in Southeast Asia, and reconciliation in science through collaborative Indigenous-Western research practices.

• Faculty Early Career Researcher (ECR) Scheme (2023)
• Open Access Publishing Scheme (2025)
• Conference Travel Grant (2018)
• CSU ILWS Category B Research Support Fund (2020)
• Executive Deans List (2017)

Scott is a registered Professional Geologist (Australian Institute of Geoscientists), member of the International Association for Mathematical Geosciences, and the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Mathematics Alliance. He serves as a Faculty representative on the Indigenous Board of Studies and is a registered supervisor. His work is supported by ongoing grants focused on AI, machine learning, and open-access research dissemination. He actively participates in academic workshops, particularly in digital learning platforms like Brightspace, and contributes to public engagement through media appearances on koala conservation and environmental stewardship.

Scott is involved in the Data Science and Engineering Research Unit and the Data Mining Research Group (DaMRG) at CSU, where he contributes to projects on predictive analytics and responsible data use. His collaborative network includes researchers in environmental science, Indigenous studies, and conservation biology, reflecting his commitment to interdisciplinary and culturally responsive research.