School of Science

Outstanding achievers celebrated at ECU Staff Excellence Awards

Edith Cowan University (ECU) staff who made an outstanding contribution to the University in 2026 were honoured at this year's Vice-Chancellor's Staff Excellence Awards.

An esteemed selection committee assessed the credentials of 287 deserving nominees to finalise this year's award winners, with a combination of individual and team accolades presented to staff from a range of Schools and departments.

ECU Professor Caroline Finch elected to illustrious medical academy: 'It's very humbling'

Edith Cowan University (ECU) Vice-Chancellor Professorial Research Fellow - Injury Prevention and former Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) Professor Caroline Finch AO has been inducted as one of 29 new Fellows into the Australian Academy of Health and Medical Sciences (AAHMS).

ECU Professor recognised among world leaders in horticultural science

Professor Zora Singh has been awarded the prestigious Fellow Award by the International Society for Horticultural Science (ISHS), a rare distinction recognising outstanding and sustained contributions to horticultural science on the world stage. The award was formally conferred at the ISHS Members Forum (General Assembly) on 26 August, during the 32nd International Horticultural Congress in, Japan, which brought together 2,500 delegates from 71 countries.

Digital battle: ECU hosts national cyber security competition

Developed and led by Edith Cowan University's (ECU) School of Science, PECAN+ CTF is a free, collaborative initiative for students in years 10 to 12, with the aim of raising cyber security awareness and skills. What began in 2019 as a friendly battle with teams from Perth and Canberra – hence the name PECAN – the annual competition has grown to be Australia-wide, with more than 400 competitors across 11 national sites, made up of 98 teams.

ECU celebrates National Science Week

National Science Week is just around the corner, and Edith Cowan University (ECU) is proud to be running and supporting several events.
Taking place in August, National Science Week is Australia's annual celebration of science and technology. From 15 to 23 August, there will be an exciting line-up of interactive events showcasing the creativity, excitement and impact of science in our community.

ECU staff and students named finalists in 2026 Premier's Science Awards

Congratulations to the three staff and students from Edith Cowan University (ECU) who have been named as finalists in the 2026 Premier's Science Awards.

The Premier's Science Awards program recognises and celebrates the outstanding scientific research and engagement taking place in Western Australia.

ECU hosts Australian Federal Police-led program to inspire next generation of cyber champions

Edith Cowan University (ECU) has partnered with the Australian Federal Police (AFP) to host re_BOOTCMP – a dynamic cyber program designed to educate teenagers about the crucial online boundaries separating cyber champions from cyber criminals.

ECU and Tokyo City University celebrate first joint master's graduates

The first two graduates of a joint postgraduate collaboration between Edith Cowan University (ECU) and Tokyo City University (TCU) were awarded a Master of Environmental Studies on 19 March 2026 at a graduation ceremony held at Tokyo City University's Setagaya Campus, in Tokyo. In a symbolic reflection of the partnership, Garima Nepal and Auron Wiles wore ECU academic gowns as they received their jointly conferred degrees.

ECU researchers launch Seagrass Heatwave Collective

A team of researchers from Edith Cowan University's (ECU's) Centre for Marine Ecosystems Research has launched a new initiative to help care for Western Australia's vital seagrass meadows. Professor Kathryn McMahon, Associate Dean of Research for the School of Science, Acting Director for Centre for People, Place and Planet and one of the four co-founders, said the Seagrass Heatwave Collective was created after the 2025 marine heatwave highlighted an urgent threat to seagrass meadows.

Can seagrasses survive extreme heat? Exploring how different seagrass species withstand elevated water temperatures

Extreme heat can have a devastating effect on seagrass, however new research from ECU could shape how these vitally important marine ecosystems are managed and restored.

At 79, ECU graduate turns a lifetime in coding into academic success

ECU student and researcher Chris Napier has graduated with a Master of Computing and Security by Research at the age of 79.

ECU research ignites with AEA funding

Associate Professor Shihao Yan from the School of Science, has been awarded $471,400 to detect and disrupt rogue drones. The technology is based on a rapid drone detection and jamming system that targets the same radio frequencies drones rely on to fly.

The social media ban is just the start of Australia’s forthcoming restrictions

A range of new social media restrictions are on the way, and our research shows teens are already worried about them — and determined to find ways around them.

ECU hosts inspiring kick-start to PEAC

The annual PEAC Induction Program gives Year 4 students from across the northern suburbs an opportunity to meet fellow high-potential learners, participate in fun thought-provoking workshops, and engage with expert academics and students from ECU.

HDR Student Inspires Young Scientists on Cocos (Keeling) Islands

Higher Degree by Research (HDR) student Caitlyn O’Dea recently returned from an extraordinary field trip to the Cocos (Keeling) Islands, where her research brought together science and community.