Dr Edward Narayan

Senior Lecturer

School of Agriculture and Food Sustainability
Faculty of Science
e.narayan@uq.edu.au
+61 7 54601 693
0401697287

Overview

Primary Areas of Interest: Comparative Animal Physiology, Animal Welfare and Conservation Physiology

I embarked on higher education at the University of the South Pacific, where I earned a Ph.D. in Biology. I conducted research work in non-invasive reproductive and stress endocrinology tools for amphibians, unlocking the secrets of the reproductive hormonal cycles and stress hormone responses of Fijian ground frogs.

My postdoctoral research fellowships took me to institutions across four countries: New Zealand, Australia, India, and Canada. Each destination enriched my knowledge and expertise, adding diverse dimensions to my academic repertoire. In 2010, I joined Griffith University in Queensland, Australia, where I began research on the Conservation Physiology of wildlife in collaboration with leading WIldlife Ecologists. The postdoctoral research has yielded remarkable insights into the physiological regulation of stress in amphibians and I also had opportunity to develop hormone monitoring tools for iconic Australian wildlife such as koalas. This exposure generated my passion to conduct further research on the health and welfare of koalas. Over these years, I have been lucky to work with and supervise over 20 Honours, Masters, and Ph.D. students.

My current research program seeks to bolster animal resilience through a multifaceted approach, involving physiology, behavior, and management practices.

I returned to Australia in 2015 upon completing my international postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Saskatchwen, Canada. Prior to starting Faculty appointment at UQ, I have had the worndeful opportunity to teach at regional universities including Charles Sturt University (Wagga Wagga) and Western Sydney University (Hawkesbury Campus).

I am currently based in the School of Agriculture and Food Sustainability (AGFS) as academic member of the Animal Science Discipline Group. I teach primarily Animal Physiology & Anatomy and supervise a dynamic group of research scholars through the Stress Lab. I am Category B member of the UQ Animal Ethics Committee (NEWMA). I also represent the University of Queensland as a LINK member for the Universities Federation of Animal Welfare (UFAW).

International Engagement

I have engagement through the European Union Funded ClearFarm Research which brings Animal Welfare standards to livestock products from a farm to plate approach, using Smart-Farm and Precision Ag Technologies.

UQ joins €13m project to bring technology to livestock sector

In 2023, my team of scholars from the Stress Lab organised and Chaired the 38th Australia and New Zealand Society for Comparative Physiology and Biochemistry (ANZSCPB) conference at the UQ, Gatton campus.

UQ Gatton hosts successful 38th ANZSCPB Conference

I have presented our research through Conversation Articles

How climate change will affect your pet – and how to help them cope

Testing the stress levels of rescued koalas allows us to tweak their care so more survive in the wild

What does a koala’s nose know? A bit about food, and a lot about making friends

Koalas can learn to live the city life if we give them the trees and safe spaces they need

With the right help, bears can recover from the torture of bile farming

Drop, bears: chronic stress and habitat loss are flooring koalas

Research Interests

  • Animal Welfare, Conservation Physiology & Sustainable Agriculture
    I am keen to recruit postdocs, PhD students with laboratory experience in animal molecular biology (e.g. PCRs) and publications (this will be a plus point). I currently work mainly with sheep and koala research models.

Research Impacts

Dr. Edward Narayan: A Catalyst for Change in Multiple Sectors

Dr. Edward Narayan is more than a scientist; he is a transformative force shaping innovation, conservation, and knowledge dissemination. With unparalleled dedication, he has created a global impact in agriculture, the environment, animal welfare, and education.

Agriculture Sector: Edward's influence spans continents, driving progress in primary industries through collaborations with institutions like the University Putra Malaysia and SARDI. His initiatives secure scholarships, funding, and groundbreaking international projects, setting new standards in agricultural innovation.

Environmental Sector: From leading koala rescue clinics to global partnerships with wildlife organizations, Edward ensures holistic care for animals. His network includes renowned groups like Animals Asia and the International Fund for Animal Welfare, all united in preserving our natural heritage.

Zoo Programs: Edward's commitment extends to captive animals, enhancing zoo programs for Australian marsupials, Big Cats, and Saltwater crocodiles. As a member of the Zoos and Aquarium Association, he advances research opportunities, enriching the lives of animals in captivity.

Science Education: Passionate about education, Edward networks with Pacific Island Countries, sharing knowledge in universities and contributing to scientific growth in developing nations.

Media Engagement: Edward's advocacy reaches millions through BBC Wildlife Magazine, The Conversation, and ABC Rural. His research on Heat Stress Management in Sheep and Koalas, featured globally, emphasizes the urgency of animal welfare and conservation.

Dr. Edward Narayan's legacy resonates in the next generation of scientists, as he mentors Honours, Masters, MPhil, and PhD projects. His holistic approach continues to inspire change, making the world a better place for all.

Edward is available to supervise Honours, Masters, MPhil and PhD research projects.

Qualifications

  • Postgraduate Diploma in Learning and Teaching in Higher Education, Charles Sturt University
  • Doctor of Philosophy of Biological Sciences, University of the South Pacific

Publications

View all Publications

Supervision

  • Doctor Philosophy

  • Master Philosophy

  • Doctor Philosophy

View all Supervision

Available Projects

  • Empowering Students at the STRESS LAB

    At the STRESS LAB, our mission is clear: to empower students to engage in innovative research projects focused on animal well-being under human care. We believe in a holistic approach, combining physiological, behavioral, computational, and social science methods to deepen our understanding of animals in various environments.

    Diverse Research Models: Whether you're interested in domesticated animals like sheep and cattle or the fascinating world of wildlife, encompassing frogs, birds, and small mammals, our lab provides a platform for diverse research experiences.

    Global Research Opportunities: Research knows no borders. You have the chance to conduct studies not only in Australia but also in our collaborative national and international field locations, including the renowned HiddenVale Wildlife Facility.

    Exceptional Students Wanted: We are on the lookout for passionate and dedicated students with a strong academic background (first class Honours) to join our team. If you have the drive and curiosity to delve into meaningful research, we invite you to reach out and explore the exciting project opportunities we offer.

    Get in Touch: Ready to embark on a rewarding research journey? Don't hesitate to contact me to discuss how you can contribute to our innovative projects and make a difference in the lives of animals.

    Email: e.narayan@uq.edu.au

    Join us at the STRESS LAB and be part of transformative research that impacts the well-being of animals and the world we share with them.

View all Available Projects

Publications

Featured Publications

Book

Book Chapter

Journal Article

Conference Publication

Other Outputs

PhD and MPhil Supervision

Current Supervision

  • Doctor Philosophy — Principal Advisor

  • Master Philosophy — Principal Advisor

  • Doctor Philosophy — Principal Advisor

    Other advisors:

  • Master Philosophy — Principal Advisor

    Other advisors:

  • Doctor Philosophy — Principal Advisor

  • Doctor Philosophy — Associate Advisor

    Other advisors:

Possible Research Projects

Note for students: The possible research projects listed on this page may not be comprehensive or up to date. Always feel free to contact the staff for more information, and also with your own research ideas.

  • Empowering Students at the STRESS LAB

    At the STRESS LAB, our mission is clear: to empower students to engage in innovative research projects focused on animal well-being under human care. We believe in a holistic approach, combining physiological, behavioral, computational, and social science methods to deepen our understanding of animals in various environments.

    Diverse Research Models: Whether you're interested in domesticated animals like sheep and cattle or the fascinating world of wildlife, encompassing frogs, birds, and small mammals, our lab provides a platform for diverse research experiences.

    Global Research Opportunities: Research knows no borders. You have the chance to conduct studies not only in Australia but also in our collaborative national and international field locations, including the renowned HiddenVale Wildlife Facility.

    Exceptional Students Wanted: We are on the lookout for passionate and dedicated students with a strong academic background (first class Honours) to join our team. If you have the drive and curiosity to delve into meaningful research, we invite you to reach out and explore the exciting project opportunities we offer.

    Get in Touch: Ready to embark on a rewarding research journey? Don't hesitate to contact me to discuss how you can contribute to our innovative projects and make a difference in the lives of animals.

    Email: e.narayan@uq.edu.au

    Join us at the STRESS LAB and be part of transformative research that impacts the well-being of animals and the world we share with them.