Our Lab

TESS HARMER

Tess is the Global Ecology Lab's resident geomorphologist and uses her holistic knowledge of physical, chemical and biological processes to explain spatial patterns in ecosystems.

Originally from Adelaide, Tess came to Townsville's James Cook University in 2021 to study a Bachelor of Marine Science and stayed for the warm weather, waterfalls, and immense biodiversity. During this degree she fell in love with geomorphology as a science of 'why does it look like that?'. 

In 2024 Tess completed an Honours in Environmental Science and Management on Coral Cay Geomorphology. In liaison with QPWS, her thesis centered on Michaelmas Cay, one of the most important seabird rookeries on the GBR. Using remote sensing and sediment analysis, Tess explored the cay's past and future dynamics by quantifying historical change and characterising reefal sediments, ultimately recommending management solutions. 

Tess joined the Global Ecology Lab in 2025 to map ecosystems all around the world as part of the Global Ecosystems Atlas Initiative. Within the lab she established herself as a Spatial Ecologist, assisting in conservation efforts by cross-referencing global maps to the IUCN's Global Ecosystem Typology. Tess has a passion for Science Communication and is the Head of Media at the lab, updating the lab website, LinkedIn and Instagram. She creates the lab's #SatelliteFriday posts which showcase different ecosystems and landforms and explains them in a clear and interesting way. Most of all, she enjoys learning something new everyday about Earth! 

Email: tess.harmer@jcu.edu.au 

Office: The Science Place (142) Level 2