Dr Samantha Munroe

2026 Rising Star Award

Research Scientist  |  Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO)
(Doctor of Philosophy [Environmental Science], 2015)

Dr Samantha Munroe is an emerging leader in environmental science, whose work is shaping how Australia understands, monitors and restores its ecosystems. An interdisciplinary researcher spanning marine, freshwater and terrestrial ecology, her career is defined by a strong commitment to producing science that delivers real-world impact.

Samantha has authored more than 25 highly cited publications and developed influential datasets and decision-support tools that are widely used by researchers, policymakers and environmental practitioners. Her PhD research advanced understanding of species movement and habitat use, including the early integration of chemical tracers and acoustic monitoring to better understand ecological connections within marine systems. Building on this foundation, she led the development of Australia’s first continental plant carbon isoscape, a nationally significant dataset that has enabled new insights into ecosystem processes, species movement and climate-vegetation interactions.

In her current role at CSIRO, Samantha leads nationally significant projects that translate ecological science into practical tools for conservation and restoration. She has played a key role in the ongoing development of the Habitat Condition Assessment Tool and co-leads the Ecological Knowledge System, both of which underpin Australia’s Nature Repair Market and support evidence-based investment in biodiversity outcomes at scale.

Beyond research, Samantha is a passionate science communicator and educator. Through media engagement, school outreach, citizen science initiatives and digital platforms, she has reached thousands of Australians, making complex environmental science accessible and inspiring the next generation of scientists.

Dr Munroe is redefining how environmental science is applied, ensuring research translates into meaningful outcomes for ecosystems and communities.

Connect with Samantha on LinkedIn.