School of Environmental and Life Sciences
Develop solutions to our planet's issues.
Challenging global perspectives
We are dedicated to building research and teaching skills that promote critical thinking and problem-solving. We focus on finding solutions to the challenges facing our planet, plants, animals, and people.
The fight for plastic free oceans 1:38
Emilee, a Bachelor of Science student at the University of Newcastle’s Central Coast campus, has a vision of the world’s oceans free of plastic pollution.
Developing solutions to our planet's issues
From wildlife conservation to human reproduction research, we work to solve the world’s biggest challenges.
Study areas
Our students are taught by top academics and use world-class facilities while earning their qualifications. We also have strong connections to industry, which students can access through field trips and career-ready placement opportunities.
Fertility success 1:15
A world-first sperm extender is set to more than double the effectiveness of artificial insemination rates in horses and may also have implications for humans.
Research
We’ve built a strong reputation, with many of our researchers earning national and international recognition for their work on our planet and its life.
News
News • 30 Oct 2025
Polymer science PhD student wins prestigious ATSE award
University of Newcastle PhD student, Zachary Di Pietro, has been recognised at the prestigious Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering (ATSE) awards for outstanding work in polymer science.
News • 29 Oct 2025
New animal study links Williamtown PFAS levels to male reproductive impacts
New research from the University of Newcastle has revealed PFAS levels matching those found in the Williamtown contamination zone could significantly alter male reproductive health in animals – even without visibly damaging sperm.
News • 28 Oct 2025
Celebrating Earth Science Week: Exploring the Past, Shaping the Future
The College of Engineering, Science and Environment (CESE) hosted a thought-provoking Earth Science Week event, Exploring the Past, Shaping the Future, bringing together students, researchers, and industry professionals to reflect on the critical role Earth Science plays in shaping our world.
News • 28 Oct 2025
Celebrating Earth Science Week: Exploring the Past, Shaping the Future
The College of Engineering, Science and Environment (CESE) hosted a thought-provoking Earth Science Week event, Exploring the Past, Shaping the Future, bringing together students, researchers, and industry professionals to reflect on the critical role Earth Science plays in shaping our world.
News • 13 Oct 2025
Global effort to keep koalas safe
With generous support from the Australian Wildlife Society, international PhD student, Charlotte Rigolot, is tackling one of the biggest challenges facing wildlife conservation today: how to protect our wild koala populations from extinction.
News • 30 Sep 2025
Celebrating Research Excellence: Dr Ed Johnson Awarded Prestigious AINSE Grants
Dr Ed Johnson has secured two prestigious awards from the Australian Institute of Nuclear Science and Engineering (AINSE): the Early Career Researcher Grant (ECRG) and the AINSE ANSTO French Embassies (SAAFE) Research Internship.
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.