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Dr Robert Woodcock

Senior Principal Research Consultant

https://people.csiro.au/W/R/Robert-Woodcock

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Biography

Robert Woodcock is a Team Leader at CSIRO, based in Black Mountain, ACT, where he leads initiatives in Earth data and analytics infrastructure. He currently heads the development of the Earth Analytics Science & Innovation (EASI) platform—a scalable, cloud-based system designed to transform satellite imagery into actionable insights across domains such as water quality, bushfire risk, and climate resilience. Learn more about EASI here.

Robert’s portfolio includes national and international projects that integrate Earth observation data with decision-support systems. These include:
- AquaWatch Australia, which uses EASI to monitor and forecast water quality conditions.
- The National Bushfire Intelligence Capability, built on EASI to assess hazard potential under future climate scenarios.
- The AuScope Discovery Portal and 3D Geological Models Portal, enabling access to geoscience data and models across Australia.
- The ASTER Geoscience Map of Australia, a continent-scale satellite-derived mineralogy map.

With over two decades of experience in spatial information systems, software engineering, and data architecture, Robert is committed to translating research into innovation that delivers real-world impact.

Other Interests

Music composition for video and games

Current Roles

  • Director
    Auscope Grid

  • Project Leader
    Earth Data and Analytics, CSIRO Centre for Earth Observation

Academic Qualifications

  • 2010

    Certificate in Executive Management and Development
    Australian Graduate School of Management

  • 1996

    Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
    The University of Western Australia

  • 1991

    Bachelor of Engineering (B.Eng.)
    The University of Western Australia

Professional Experiences

  • 2012

    Senior Principal Research Consultant
    CSIRO

  • 2009-2011

    Research Scientist/Manager
    CSIRO

  • 2007-2008

    Research Group Leader - Computational Geoscience
    CSIRO

  • 2006-2007

    Executive Manager, e-Science (Acting)
    CSIRO

  • 2002-2007

    Project Manager/Principal Software Engineer
    CSIRO

  • 2001-2002

    Chief Technical Officer
    Supersoftware International Pty Ltd

  • 1996-2001

    Research and Development Manager
    Fractal Graphics Pty Ltd

  • 1995-1998

    Lecturer
    The University of Western Australia

Achievements and Awards

  • 2008-

    Divisional Award - Teamwork
    CSIRO

  • 2008-

    Divisional Award - Lookout
    CSIRO

  • 2004-

    Divisional Award - Project Management
    CSIRO

  • 1995-

    Student Perception of Teaching Award
    The University of Western Australia

  • 1994-

    William Lambden Owen Postgraduate Scholarship in Engineering
    University of Western Australia

Other highlights

  • 2007-2019

    AuScope Grid - National Geoscience Information Network

  • 1996-2001

    FracSIS - Commercial 3D Spatial Information and Visualisation System

Publications

We have publications by Dr Robert Woodcock