New Co-Directors Appointed at the Lizard Island Research Station

The Australian Museum Lizard Island Research Station has announced the appointment of two new co-directors, Dr. Emily Howells and Dr. David Abrego.

Located on the world-renowned Lizard Island on the Great Barrier Reef, plays a vital role in advancing marine science and conservation. Dr. Howells and Dr. Abrego are set to continue the station’s legacy as a leading hub for research on coral reef ecosystems. Their appointment comes at a crucial time, as the Great Barrier Reef faces increasing pressures from climate change, and their leadership will be integral in shaping future research efforts.

Dr. Howells, an expert in coral reef ecology, has spent over a decade conducting field-based research in marine environments. Dr. Abrego, a marine biologist with a focus on coral reef conservation and restoration, has extensive experience working with reef ecosystems. Together, they will guide The Australian Museum Lizard Island Research Station in its mission to support scientific discoveries that contribute to the protection and sustainability of the Great Barrier Reef.

Australian Museum Director and CEO Kim McKay AO thanked outgoing Co-Directors Dr Anne Hoggett AM and Dr Lyle Vail AM, who have been joint Directors at LIRS since 1990. Dr Hoggett and Dr Vail were awarded the AMRI Lifetime Achievement Award in October 2023 for their significant life-long contribution to coral reef science and their committed management of LIRS. Dr Hoggett and Dr Lyle Vail will commence new honorary roles as Fellows of the Australian Museum.

“On behalf of the entire Australian Museum team, I’d like to sincerely thank Anne and Lyle for their three decades of stewardship as Co-Directors of the AM’s Lizard Island Research Station. Their work leading LIRS has influenced thousands of marine scientists and helped the world understand the impacts of climate change on the Great Barrier Reef,” McKay said.

Luxury Lodges of Australia congratulates Dr. Howells and Dr. Abrego on their new roles and looks forward to seeing the continued success of The Australian Museum Lizard Island Research Station in preserving the unique beauty of Lizard Island and the broader Great Barrier Reef. The station remains a key partner in offering guests the chance to experience the natural wonders of Australia through world-class research and conservation efforts.

To learn more on the Lizard Island Research Station Tour, click here.

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