Paula Wasiak

Senior Research Officer
Phillip Island Nature Parks
PhD Candidate
The Australian National University

Cowes, VIC

Contact me for

  • Mentoring
  • Sitting on boards or committees
  • Providing an expert opinion
  • Outreach activities
  • Conference presenting
  • Opportunities to collaborate

Biography

A self-proclaimed "bird nerd," I found my calling waddling alongside little penguins for 15 years. My dedication to these charismatic seabirds had me elbow-deep in burrows, coordinating and conducting field data collection for projects aimed at future-proofing their survival and unlocking the mysteries of the oceans.

Now, I'm channelling my passion for bird conservation into my PhD research, focusing on another fascinating Australian native – the bush stone-curlew. My work aims to pioneer new approaches for reintroducing these enigmatic ground-dwelling birds to rural-urban areas in south-eastern Australia.

When I'm not in the field or tied to the computer, you’ll find me sharing my wildlife stories with anyone who will listen. I love mixing in science with funny anecdotes in the hope of sparking joy, wonder, and a desire for conservation action in the wider community.

For me, science is all about discovery and sharing those discoveries with others. Whether I'm tracking penguins in their tuxedos or uncovering the mysteries of our suburban bush stone-curlews, I'm driven by the belief that understanding and connecting with nature is the first step to protecting it.