UniSC’s Forest Research Institute undertakes work in the broad spectrum of forestry research areas that make direct and meaningful contributions to the sustainability of our wooded landscapes.
This includes important areas of studies such as smallholder and forest conservation-based research, along with work to ensure industries are meeting regulatory requirements and public expectations.
Research centres
The Forest Research Institute is comprised of four Centres, each with an individual identity and research focus. Centres work collaboratively for greater impact.
Forest Industries Research Centre
The Forest Industries Research Centre (FIRC) is focused on the forestry value chain and the economic and environmental sustainability of forest industries.
Tropical Forests and People Research Centre
The Tropical Forests and People Research Centre brings together researchers interested in the interactions between people and tropical forests.
National Centre for Timber Durability and Design Life
National Centre for Timber Durability and Design Life Research Centre's aim is large-scale replacement of energy-intensive materials with sustainable biomaterials (wood, bamboo and plan-fibre-based composites).
AFWI Centre for Sustainable Futures
Leading applied research to enhance timber production, maximise forest value, and support the development of carbon-friendly building solutions.
Seminar Series and Research Showcase
Forests for our Future: Lunch & Learn
Join UniSC's Forest Research Institute on the first Tuesday of each month to learn about forestry and sustainability. At each event, researchers and HDR students from the Institute will share insights from their latest projects and discuss challenges and innovations in forestry, with a particular focus on sustainability and the vital role forests play in tackling climate change.
Forest Research Institute Showcase
Following a successful event in 2024, our UniSC Forest Research Institute is planning another Research Showcase from 27-29 Oct, 2025 at the Innovation Centre, UniSC Sunshine Coast campus. Join us for three inspiring days of networking opportunities, workshops, awards and presentations from leading national and international experts in Forestry, Forest Products and Forest Science, including a dedicated Student Day.
Registration link and program details to follow soon.
Events
More eventsResearcher Spotlight
Globally-recognised forest sector leader, Dr Lyndall Bull, announced as keynote speaker for FRI Research Showcase
1 Sep 2025We’re thrilled to announce Dr Lyndall Bull as the keynote speaker for the Forest Research Institute’s Research Showcase 2025.
AFWI Centre for Sustainable Futures Lead-in Projects Approved for Funding
23 Jul 2025Two of our AFWI Centre for Sustainable Futures initial lead-in projects have been signed off by the AFWI Research Advisory Committee and Board, with the following projects approved for funding
Leanda Garvie: Forests, Figures and Forward Thinking
2 Jun 2025Molecular biology, accounting, and forestry may seem an unlikely mix, but for Leanda Garvie, these fields came together in a remarkably cohesive way.
Contact us
- Email: FRIAdmin@usc.edu.au
- More contact details
- Follow us on LinkedIn for latest news
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