Nick Gales

Nick Gales has a diverse background in applied marine mammal conservation science. Originally graduating as a veterinarian and then moving to applied science through a PhD program on Australian sea lions, he has enjoyed working on the science that underpins the policy and management of marine mammal and human interactions in many arenas.

Nick has conducted detailed physiological, reproductive and movement studies of seals, dugongs, whales and dolphins in a diverse range of environments including Antarctica, Australia, New Zealand and many of the subantarctic islands.

Nick is now the leader of the Australian Marine Mammal Centre, based at the Australian Antarctic Division in Hobart. This job provides Nick with an opportunity to positively influence the direction, shape and quantity of science that supports improved conservation outcomes for marine mammals and to ensure that Government policy and management decisions are fully informed with science. Among other roles Nick also leads Australia's delegation at meetings of the International Whaling Commission's Scientific Committee, and is the Oceania coordinator for the International Union for Conservation of Nature cetacean specialist group.

Nick is the lead scientist on the Antarctic Whale Expedition. He will lead the science on one of the small boat teams, and will perform the role of satellite tagger as part of that team.