Behind the Build – Dr Bojan Tamburic
Published on the 14 August 2026
Behind every engineering solution is someone driven to solve a problem. For Dr Bojan Tamburic, that problem is harmful algal blooms and protecting the quality of our water.
His journey into Engineering began during an undergraduate physics degree, where he discovered a passion for applying scientific knowledge to real-world challenges. That path eventually led him to environmental engineering, where he found the perfect combination of scientific research and practical problem-solving.
"What drew me to this field is its multidisciplinary nature – it brings together water infrastructure, chemistry, ecology, environmental management and data science. I also enjoy spending time in the field, especially working on and around the water.”
Research that makes an impact
Dr Tamburic focuses on understanding and preventing harmful algal blooms, which can pose serious risks to both human and environmental health. Using satellite imagery, he monitors how algal blooms develop across Australia's waterways, tracking changes across more than 1,000 large lakes, reservoirs, and watercourses over the past two decades.
"Better monitoring helps water managers detect risks earlier and make more informed decisions to protect drinking water supplies and aquatic ecosystems.".
Driven by a desire to create research with real-world impact, Dr Tamburic is developing tools that improve how water resources are managed. His work supports water utilities in making smarter operational decisions while also generating evidence that can shape environmental guidelines and policy.
Looking ahead
What excites Dr Tamburic most is technology’s power to transform how we understand and protect water. Advances in satellites, environmental monitoring and machine learning are helping researchers detect change earlier, predict emerging threats and safeguard water resources more effectively.
While much of his day-to-day work involves planning research, analysing data, and collaborating with his team, no two days are the same.
"One of the great things about my work is that it also takes me into the field, from Sydney's Centennial Park to the Hunter Valley or the Snowy Mountains. It's a nice balance between desk-based research and working outdoors."
For aspiring researchers, Dr Tamburic sees curiosity and strong foundations as the starting point for meaningful impact. A deep understanding of how things work, he believes, is what turns knowledge into solutions for real-world problems.
Every breakthrough starts with someone curious enough to ask a question. If you’re interested in pursuing a PhD in environmental engineering and making an impact through research, contact Dr Bojan Tamburic to explore current opportunities.