Applied research approach

We lead whole-of-water cycle, trans-disciplinary and collaborative research activities, which address current and emerging water issues to influence water management and policy, education and leadership. Our research is empirical, problem-based and generates useful new knowledge.

Our approach

Recognising the interconnectedness of issues affecting water, we adopt a trans-disciplinary approach to research.

We support our applied research programs with:

expert services in project management
long-term planning
capacity building
communication of outcomes.

By applying a trans-disciplinary approach to investigative activities, we ensure our work generates:

publications
research grants
postgraduate research training.

Because our research is context specific, it can directly influence water policy and management.

Capacity development through research

We develop the capacity of the water sector and practitioners at all levels – institutional, inter and intra-organisational, community and individual – to enhance understanding of integrated water management across the professional spectrum.

Integrated water management

Our approach:

acknowledges the environmental, ecological and human processes that water undergoes from catchment to coast
clarifies and manages the multiple values of water
considers the impacts of decisions systemically across environment, politics, law, science, culture, engineering, economics, health and society.

Our integrated approach to water research, education and management makes us unique. The three areas of our business – education, projects and applied research – are intricately linked and draw from each other to develop and promote best practices in integrated water management.

Our research partners

We collaborate with our university members and other respected research partners, bringing together the biophysical sciences with social and economic disciplines for sustainable water management outcomes.