Kathryn Taffs

Biography

Kathryn is an Adjunct Associate Professor in the School of Environment, Science and Engineering. She was previously Deputy Dean of the Faculty, and her role included teaching at undergraduate and postgraduate levels, research in aquatic sciences and management of a large group of environmental scientists.

Research

Kathryn's research focus is the use of palaeolimnological techniques to identify environmental change caused by climatic variation and anthropogenic disturbance in estuaries and wetlands. Recent research projects have focussed on the use of bioindicators to monitor river and estuary health. Knowledge of the environmental history of ecosystems is essential to develop a fuller understanding of benchmark conditions, natural variability, and key ecosystem thresholds. Such information can be applied within management strategies to more effectively conserve environmental resources.

Supervision

Kathryn supervises Masters and PhD research programs. Recent and current PhD students have worked on coastal management, estuary dynamics and bio-indicators of water quality. Prospective students are welcome to contact Kathryn for project and research information.

Teaching

Kathryn taught at undergraduate and postgraduate levels. At an undergraduate level she was responsible for the units Wetland Ecosystems and Earth Systems 2: the Hydrosphere. Kathryn also supervised third year research projects within the unit Integrated Projects, especially projects focused on wetland ecosystem biology, ecology and management.