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Lucas Lutzenkirchen

Overview of thesis

My PhD research examines the factors influencing coral reef fish geographic range sizes. By refining global species distribution maps and integrating phylogenetic and metabolic data in Bayesian regression analyses, I aim to identify patterns of range size variation. I will also investigate reef fish endemism on oceanic islands, exploring how island characteristics shape ecological and evolutionary processes. Additionally, I will apply bioregionalization tools to assess range patterns across newly aggregated marine bioregions, with the goal of translating theoretical findings into conservation applications.

Qualifications

  • Master of Philosophy, James Cook University, 2024.
  • Bachelor of Science, James Cook University, 2021.
  • PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor, 2019.
  • QLD Recreational Boat License.
  • First Aid, CPR, and Advance Resuscitation certificates.

Research

Research Interests

  • Marine Biology
  • Macroecology
  • Biogeography

Past Research employment history

  • 2025-present: ECU SOAR Peer Advisor, ECU, Perth.
  • 2024-present: ECU School of Science Ambassador, ECU, Perth.
  • 2021-2024: Tutor for GIS subjects, JCU, Townsville.
  • 2020-2021: CoTS Control Program Diver, Townsville.
  • 2019-2020: Dive Instructor, Townsville.

Past Teaching

  • Tutor for Advanced GIS, JCU, Townsville.
  • Tutor for Introduction into GIS, JCU, Townsville.
  • Lectures for Evolution and Biogeography of Marine Organisms, JCU, Townsville.
  • Lectures for Introduction into GIS, JCU, Townsville.

Scholarships and Awards

  • 2024 - Vice Chancellor’s Research Fellow PhD Scholarship
  • 2022 - Postgraduate Research Stipend Scholarship
  • 2021 - Joe and Val Baker Prizes (Prize B)
  • 2021 - College of Science and Engineering Prize
  • 2021 - International Student of the Year
  • 2020 - Chris Alexander Memorial Prizes for Marine Biology (Prize A)
  • 2020 - Second Year Ron Kenny Prizes in Zoology

Supervisors


Contact

Lucas Lutzenkirchen
PhD Student
Centre of Marine Ecosystems Research
School of Science
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