Katie Wilson

Katie joined WRL as a PhD candidate in March 2022 to research “Long-range forecasting of coastal hazards on wave-dominated coastlines”.

Katie’s research aims to provide a seasonal to annual forecast of coastal hazards such as erosion to quantify risks for wave-dominated coastlines with a goal of providing Coastal Climatic Outlooks, similar to the rainfall and temperature outlooks produced by the Bureau of Meteorology. This research will help governing bodies to accurately assess coastal risks over the following year, allowing to adapt coastal management plans before hazards occur.

Previously, Katie worked as an environmental engineer in New Zealand, combining a love of three-waters/water sensitive urban design with risk assessment, Emergency Response Plans, environmental assessment and more. Their engagement with Iwi groups allowed them to apply mātauranga Māori (traditional Māori knowledge) in the workplace.

They aspire to follow a career path integrating the fields of science and engineering in order to promote sustainability and follow their passion for the ocean and environment. When not at the lab, you can find Katie surfing, climbing, kayaking and hiking.

Supervisors: Dr Mitchell Harley and Dr Kristen Splinter