Wayne Rochester

Background

About Wayne Rochester

As a quantitative research scientist at Australia's national science agency, I analyse large, complex datasets to create knowledge and support decisions. To do that I combine the analytical thinking of a research scientist with well-developed skills in statistical and computational analysis (recently including machine learning). These attributes together enable me to identify opportunities and traps in datasets, distil the key questions, answer them and interpret the results. I communicate findings in reports, scientific papers, presentations and web formats. I use a variety of tools such as R, Python, GIS and SQL in Linux environments, including high performance computing systems. Programming in formal and scripting languages underlies much of my work. In my present role I mostly work as a project team member in applied research projects for government and industry clients and funders. These projects often have a strategic component as they are generally part funded by appropriation. I am accustomed to delivering to specific objectives in tight timeframes across multiple competing projects. My work is mainly on natural resource management in the marine and coastal domains. It covers a range of subjects, recently including ecosystem health, animal tagging, biodiversity mapping, effects of fishing, water quality and rural/coastal livelihoods. I have over ten years of experience in line management of up to ten permanent staff at a time. In this role I also contribute to the day-to-day and strategic management of the broader group.