Meet our expert team
| The Cities Research Institute has one of Australia's largest concentrations of researchers focusing on all aspects of cities and urban transformation. CRI researchers are future-focused problem solvers and include architects, planners, engineers, environmental and social scientists, environmental and public health specialists. |
Director
Associate Professor Cara Beal
I'm a 'pracademic' with a knack for bringing together talents from diverse multidisciplinary teams, within the Institute, throughout Griffith University, and broader industry and research landscape to successfully deliver timely research outcomes with major real work impacts. My leadership style is all about putting people first, promoting inclusivity, and balancing assertiveness with a democratic approach. During my tenure at Griffith, I've successfully secured over $7.2 million in funding from both public and private sources, including state and national organisations.
As a leading research institution focused on cities and communities, CRI boasts a diverse group of academics, industry partners, and stakeholders. The Institute is ideally positioned to flourish as a robust, multidisciplinary institution well-prepared for the challenges of a complex and competitive research environment.
If you would like to get in touch, please don't hesitate to email me.
Research Theme Leaders
Professor Matthew Burke
Principal Research Fellow, CRI Deputy Director, Transport Lead
Professor Paul Burton
Professor of Planning, Gold Coast futures Lead
Professor Rodney Stewart
Professor, School of Engineering and Built Environment
Professor Anne Roiko
Academic Lead, Environmental Health, School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences
Dr Ruby Michael
Founder and Lead, GIRLS. Lecturer, School of Engineering and Built Environment
Professor Cheryl Desha
Director Engagement, School of Engineering & Built Environment
Professor Hong Guan
Professor, School of Engineering and Built Environment
Professor Joerg Baumeister
Sea Cities Research Leader, Cities Research Institute
Dr Johanna Nalau
ARC Discovery Early Career Research Fellow (2019-2021), Snr Research Fellow
Dr Darrell Strauss
Manager, Senior Research Fellow, Coastal and Marine Research Centre