Dr David Souter: BSc (Hons), PhD
I am a marine scientist with more than 25 years experience in science leadership and research management roles in Australia and internationally, particularly in Antarctic and tropical marine sciences and coastal resource management. As the acting Chief Scientist, I'm focussed on the management and coordination of research delivered by AAD’s Science Branch and the broader Australian Antarctic Science Program, particularly through the collaborative development of long-term strategic and policy-relevant research priorities that advance Australia’s national interests in Antarctica.
In early 2024 I successfully coordinated the science program of the Australian Antarctic Program’s multi-institutional, multi-disciplinary Denman Terrestrial Campaign, which was focussed on answering key questions concerning the characteristics, behaviour and vulnerability of the Denman Glacier in remote east Antarctica.
Prior to joining the AAD, I was involved in coral reef research, tropical coastal ecosystems management, global assessments and the development of scientific capability in Australia, East Africa, the Indian Ocean Islands, South and Southeast Asia through World Bank, UNEP, Sida, and AusAID funded programs.
In addition, I was the Global Coordinator of the Global Coral Reef Monitoring Network (GCRMN), and lead editor of the GCRMN Status of Coral Reefs of the World:2020 report.