Congratulations to Associate Professor Shane Tobe (MMFS), who has recently secured a grant for his project aimed at monitoring biological remains from wind turbine strikes using environmental DNA (eDNA).

This innovative project seeks to develop a methodology to detect the biological material left behind in soil or water, addressing the challenge of rapid decomposition or scavenging of remains before discovery. The project will involve determining effective sampling techniques and assessing the duration of detectable biological signals in eDNA after an organism's removal. The initial phase focuses on building a library from known animals to ensure accurate identification of later eDNA samples.

This project represents a significant step towards improving our understanding of the impacts of wind turbines on wildlife and developing techniques to mitigate these effects.

It is part of a $7 million project – Lead by Professor Trish Fleming, and including 14 other MU researchers across Harry Butler Institute and the Schools of Agricultural Sciences; Environmental and Conservation Sciences; Medical, Molecular and Forensic Sciences; Mathematics, Statistics, Chemistry and Physics; Engineering and Energy; and Information Technology : Professor Trish Fleming and includes Dr Margaret Andrew, Dr Kerryn Hawke, Professor Graham Hocking, Dr Halina Kobryn, Professor Hamid Laga, Dr Soudabeh Shemehsavar, Dr Jill Shephard, Associate Professor Shane Tobe, Dr James Tweedley, Associate Professor Hai Wang, Associate Professor Jonathan Whale and Associate Professor Wei Xu. 

Research Interests

Shane specialises in using genetic tools and techniques to solve forensic and other biological challenges, with diverse research interests that include:

• Forensic Biology: This encompasses forensic serology, DNA analysis, and the application of molecular biology techniques to forensic investigations.
• Forensic Genetics: Focused on maximising sample recovery and minimising contaminants, with applications in cold case investigations and national security.
• Wildlife Crime: Investigating illegal activities involving wildlife through forensic methods.
• Taphonomy and Decomposition Studies: Understanding decomposition processes to aid in forensic anthropology.
• Ecology and Conservation: This uses the skills and techniques developed for forensic analyses and applies them to population genetics, wildlife conservation, and biosecurity.

   

  Shane’s broader objectives in research and teaching are to enhance forensic science education to align with real-world needs and advance research in forensic methodologies to improve the accuracy and reliability of forensic investigations.
  

  Upcoming Book

  In addition to his research, Professor Tobe has written a new book that is set for release later this year. This book promises to be a valuable resource for students and professionals in the field of forensic science.