Troy Gaston

Troy Gaston is an Associate Professor and Associate Dean for Engagement and Outreach at the University of Newcastle's School of Environmental and Life Sciences. His work focuses on environmental monitoring and assessment programs investigating the health and functioning of estuarine and coastal systems. He specializes in tracking nutrient sources and quantifying food-web interactions via stable isotope analysis across benthic, planktonic, and pelagic habitats.

Education:

• PhD, University of New South Wales
• Bachelor of Science (Honours), University of New South Wales
• Graduate Certificate in University Teach & Learn, University of Tasmania

Gaston's research centers on ecosystem-based management approaches, with particular expertise in stable isotope analysis to trace nutrient flows in coastal ecosystems. He investigates how estuarine and coastal habitats like saltmarsh, mangroves, and seagrass contribute to fisheries productivity, and has developed methods to link these habitats to commercial and recreational fishery yields. His work extends to the South Pacific, where he leads coral reef health assessment programs in the Cook Islands and Samoa, combining chemical tracers, remote-underwater survey techniques, and community-based science workshops. Gaston is also known for his innovative research on bycatch reduction in prawn-trawl fisheries.

His recent publications demonstrate a strong focus on marine ecology, climate change impacts on coastal systems, and the application of novel technologies for ecosystem monitoring. Key research themes include stable isotope analysis for tracking nutrient flows, ray bioturbation and its ecosystem impacts, predator-prey dynamics in urchin barrens, and the effects of anthropogenic stressors on marine communities. His work spans from molecular-level investigations of marine organism physiology to large-scale continental assessments of climate-driven species range shifts.

As an educator, Gaston has taught courses including Environmental Science: Concepts and Methods, Sustainable Fisheries and Aquaculture, Integrated Coastal Ecosystems, and Spatial Science. His teaching approach integrates field studies, laboratory work, and theoretical concepts to prepare students for careers in environmental science and management.

Gaston leads collaborative research projects across Australia and the South Pacific, working with government agencies, local communities, and international partners to translate ecosystem science into conservation practice. His work emphasizes community engagement and capacity building, particularly in Pacific Island nations where he helps transfer scientific tools and knowledge to local marine park managers and communities.