At Deakin’s Marine Mapping group, we’re dedicated to expanding our understanding of the ocean and its ecosystems through advanced mapping technologies and innovative research. Using the latest generation of oceanographic systems, capable of collecting thousands of soundings per minute, we create detailed seafloor maps to uncover insights that can support marine conservation and sustainable management.
In addition to our underwater research, we use a drone fleet to map and monitor coastal environments, including rocky shores. By integrating both physical and biological observations with sophisticated analysis approaches, including machine learning and frequentist methods, we deepen our understanding of oceanic and coastal processes, driving more effective conservation strategies.
Our work spans the depths of the ocean and the expanses of the sky, allowing us to study the complex relationships between environmental factors and marine life.
Our research vessel Yolla is central to our underwater studies. We investigate the relationships between environmental factors and marine life, focusing on how abiotic and biotic processes influence the distribution and abundance of both sessile and mobile marine organisms.
We also conduct aerial research using our drone fleet to study coastal environments. This research examines how environmental conditions affect coastal ecosystems, particularly the distribution patterns of marine species in these dynamic areas.
We’re looking for driven students and researchers to join our team. If you’re interested in contributing to vital research advancing our understanding of Victoria’s coastal environments, please get in touch.
Deakin Marine Mapping brings together a team of experts in marine science, spatial science and ecosystem restoration, all focused on advancing our understanding of Victoria’s coastal and marine environments.
Dr Daniel Ierodiaconou is the lab director at Deakin Marine Mapping and an Associate Professor in marine science at Deakin University. A seasoned marine ecologist, Daniel uses multi-disciplinary approaches to study terrestrial and coastal processes, evaluate marine reserves and enhance ecosystem-based management for marine conservation.
Dr Mary Young is a research fellow with Deakin Marine Mapping. Her research focuses on understanding large-scale patterns in marine systems, integrating oceanographic processes, population genetics and seafloor habitats. Her work aims to deepen our understanding of climate change impacts and inform marine spatial planning.
Dr Oliver Dalby is a postdoctoral researcher specialising in spatial science and ecosystem restoration. His primary focus is on seagrass restoration, where he applies remote sensing, suitability modelling, dispersal and connectivity studies and machine learning to develop spatially-informed management strategies for restoring these vital ecosystems.
Our researchers are leading innovative projects that expand our understanding of Victoria’s coastal environments and support effective management and conservation.
We’re collaborating with Parks Victoria to trial a new monitoring approach in the Point Addis Marine National Park. This project builds on existing long-term monitoring efforts of subtidal and intertidal reef habitats to improve our understanding of marine ecosystems and inform management strategies.
The Victorian Coastal Monitoring Project (VCMP) aims to provide communities with vital information on coastal condition, change and hazards, with a focus on the long-term impacts of climate change. By partnering with community groups and institutions, the project supports coastal monitoring at both regional and local levels, helping to guide decision-making and adaptation planning.
Have questions or want to learn more about our research and opportunities? Reach out to our team and discover how you can contribute to advancing knowledge in marine mapping.
