Conrad is a marine scientist whose research has focused on marine sea floor ecosystems — critical habitats that underpin coastal productivity and biodiversity. He has led major national research programmes, including within the Sustainable Seas Challenge, advancing understanding of how marine ecosystems function and respond to pressures such as sedimentation, nutrient enrichment, and climate change.
Conrad has held leadership roles in some of New Zealand’s leading research institutions – previously as Professor of Marine Science and Aquaculture at the University of Waikato, and currently as Head of the Institute of Marine Science at the University of Auckland.
