Biography:

Suzanne is currently the Executive Knowledge Broker for the Terrestrial Ecosystem Research Network (TERN, www.tern.org.au), and is a Fellow of the Peter Cullen Trust. Her diverse scientific research background – including a PhD in marine evolutionary genetics (from the University of Sydney), postdocs in Europe, and positions in CSIRO, universities, NGOs and state government departments – generated a strong interest in helping narrow the gap between science and policy. As a result, for the past six years she has worked as a knowledge broker in the front line of Australian environmental science and policy, dealing with topics as diverse and controversial as pesticide impacts on the Great Barrier Reef, forestry practices in Tasmania and the science of climate change. By acting strategically and evaluating the success of her activities wherever possible, her ultimate aim is to increase the rate at which science informs policy and practice, thereby improving long-term outcomes for Australian ecosystems and the communities and economies that depend upon them.

Presentations:

• Knowledge brokering in Australia: influencing policy and practice