Hongjing Xing
Qualifications
BA (Media and Communication)
MAS (Master of Animal Science)
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​Position
Masters of Animal Science student
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Contact details
School of Agriculture and Food Sustainability,
University of Queensland, Gatton Campus
Email: hongjing.xing"at"student.uq.edu.au
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Overview
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I am a Master of Animal Science student with a field of study in wildlife biology. I am now completing my research project under the supervision of Dr Laura Grogan and Dr Madelyn Mangan. My passion for wildlife began in childhood, inspired by animal documentaries and a dream of becoming a wildlife communicator. This led me to complete a BA in Media and Communication, while also sharing wildlife knowledge as a nature education teacher.
Before beginning my degree at UQ, I took part in major bird surveys in China, including research on the critically endangered Chinese Crested Tern in the Jiushan Archipelago and the breeding ecology of the Saker Falcon on the Qinghai Plateau. These experiences strengthened my commitment to wildlife research and motivated me to pursue advanced training in conservation and field methods. My goal is to contribute to biodiversity protection as both a researcher and a communicator, bridging the gap between ecological science and public engagement.
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Research overview
My research focuses on chytridiomycosis in the tusked frog (Adelotus brevis), a vulnerable rainforest amphibian in eastern Australia. By comparing upland and lowland populations, I aim to identify differences in infection dynamics, habitat factors, and potential signs of tolerance or resilience.
This work will provide insights into how elevation influences disease impacts in threatened amphibians and inform targeted conservation and habitat management strategies for Queensland’s upland frog species.
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Research keywords
Wildlife conservation; Amphibians; Frogs; Chytridiomycosis; Wildlife disease ecology; Avian and amphibian conservation; Conservation biology; Science communication
