Research On Coral Recruitment Climate Change Coral Spawning Water Quality Photophysiology
Marine Biologist & Coral Recruitment Ecologist (PhD)
Advancing Coral Propagation
I am Christopher A. Brunner, the Research Capability Development Coordinator of the National Sea Simulator which is located at the Australian Institute of Marine Science in Townsville, Australia.
As coral recruitment ecologist, I have a strong research background in the automation of coral propagation procedures (e.g. AutoSpawner), and in the investigation of combined ecological stress impacts of sediments, light attenuation and climate change on coral juveniles.
Lifelong Learning
I have owned and taken care of aquaria since my early childhood; looking back this probably sparked my eager to become a Marine Biologist!
By completing my PhD degree in Natural and Physical Sciences I have fulfilled this dream, and through the years gained in-depth work experiences at several remote research stations located on all seven continents.
Trainings & Skills
Coastal environments are complex systems which demand versatile skills to study them in their entirety, and so I completed multiple trainings allowing me to operate Under the Water Surface, On the Land and In the Air.
Speaking Up For the Oceans
Research has no effect when it is not shared, within and outside of the own professional field. Therefore, I am regularly presenting at international conferences and have supervised 7 international students & volunteers to date.
Furthermore, I have acted as official tour guide at the Australian Institute of Marine Science for over three year, engaging with traditional owners, politicians and the public.
Illustrating the hidden processes of the underwater world is a cornerstone to raise the public awareness for the protection of our oceans. I founded and own SkyReefPhoto, a business specialised in providing underwater and drone photography, as well as timelapse and video services!