Professor Rob Brander
Professor, School of BEES, UNSW Sydney
Rob is a Professor in the School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences (BEES) at UNSW Sydney. While his background is in coastal geomorphology, his research interests and focus have moved into the field of beach safety. He has done considerable research on topics related to the rip current hazard and beachgoer knowledge and behaviour in relation to beach safety practice and hazards. Rob has been heavily involved in community beach safety education through his popular Science of the Surf (SOS) program, which has gained significant media attention and given him the nickname ‘Dr Rip’. He is the author of ‘Dr Rip’s Essential Beach Book’ and was a previous winner of an Australian Museum Science Eureka Prize for promoting community understanding of science. In January 2023, he was appointed as a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for his services to beach safety education and research. Rob is a member of the International Drowning Researchers Alliance (IDRA).
Research Interests:
Rip current hazard on beaches
Public understanding and awareness of coastal hazards
Beach safety education and prevention
Science communication and public outreach
Publications:
For a list of Rob’s publications, visit his UNSW research publications page.