
Overview
Background
A/Prof Stephen Johnston is a Reader in Reproduction (40% Teaching; 40% Research and 20% Service) in the School of Environment at the University of Queensland, where he teaches animal reproduction and captive husbandry to Bachelor of Wildlife Science and Science undergraduate and postgraduate students. He is current program coordinator for the Bachelor of Wildlife Science Program. He is also a research affiliate in the School of Veterinary Science. Stephen was trained as a zoologist and specialises in the area of reproductive biology in a broad diversity of species ranging from prawns to tigers but with a major focus on Australian mammals. A/Prof Johnston has published 300 scientific works in basic and applied science disciplines including reproductive anatomy, physiology and behaviour. He was the first person in the world to produce a pouch young following artificial insemination in a marsupial, a task that he and his colleagues have now carried out successfully in the koala, a total of 34 times. Stephen is also a specialist in the cryopreservation of marsupial spermatozoa and in the assessment of sperm DNA fragmentation, including human and domestic animal spermatozoa. A/Prof Johnston’s recent research interests and grant success include studies aimed at a better understanding of the effect of chlamydia on male koala reproduction, heat stress in koalas, sociobiology of koalas, genetic and reproductive management of koalas, wombat captive reproduction, echidna captive breeding, crocodile artificial insemination and prawn aquaculture. He is a Fellow of the Society for Reproductive Biology (2019)
Availability
- Associate Professor Steve Johnston is:
- Not available for supervision
- Media expert
Fields of research
Qualifications
- Bachelor (Honours) of Science (Advanced), The University of Queensland
- Doctor of Philosophy, The University of Queensland
Research interests
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Reproductive Biology of Wildlife
The study of fundamental (anatomy, physiology and behaviour) and applied biology of the reproduction of Australian fauna and exotic mammals
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Assessment of male human fertility
Studies centred around the assessment of sperm DNA fragmentation in human reproductive medicine
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Cryopreservation of spermatozoa
A study of the cryopreservation of spermatozoa of vertebrate species
Research impacts
For 25 years, A/Prof Johnston has been the leader in the development of assisted breeding technology in Australian native fauna, with a strong interest in marsupial reproduction. His successful koala artificial breeding technology has been incorporated into State Government Conservation Policy and Legislation. The koala assisted breeding technology, which he developed, is also currently been used by the Queensland Zoo industry for genetic exchange and there are plans to use the technology for the overseas export of koala sperm to Japan and the United States. This work has also received recent acknowledgement n the Koala Expert Panel Final Report to the Queensland Government (2018). He provides expert advice and consultancy to the (1) Zoo Industry - Dreamworld, Australia Zoo, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, Taronga Zoo, Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, Rockhampton Zoo, Perth Zoo, Australian Animals Care and Education, Sea World, Paradise Country, San Diego Zoo, Australian Japan Wildlife Education Conservation Foundation, Japanese Zoo Industry (2) Production Animal Industry - Koorana Crocodile Farm, Ag Force – teacher education programs, Prawn and Aquaculture (DAFFI and CSIRO). He is a regular media commentator on wildlife related issues for TV and radio and has been involved with numerous documentaries on marsupial and monotreme reproduction including “Koala Miracle” by Lyndal Davies (1998) from Rock Wallaby Productions, (which featured his work on the successful artificial insemination of the koala) “Miracle babies” produced by National Geographic Channel (2012) - http://channel.nationalgeographic.com/wild/episodes/koala-dating-game1/ and morerecently, a new documentary “Born in the Wild” produced by Charlotte Hunt-Grubble from Windfall Films on my koala and echidna reproductive research.
Works
Search Professor Steve Johnston’s works on UQ eSpace
2011
Journal Article
Major morphological sperm abnormalities in the bull are related to sperm DNA damage
Enciso, M., Cisale, H., Johnston, S.D., Sarasa, J., Fernandez, J.L. and Gosalvez, J. (2011). Major morphological sperm abnormalities in the bull are related to sperm DNA damage. Theriogenology, 76 (1), 23-32. doi: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2010.12.034
2011
Journal Article
Elevated dietary intake of Zn-methionate is associated with increased sperm DNA fragmentation in the boar
Garcia-Contreras, Adelfa, De Loera, Yasmin, Garcia-Artiga, Carlos, Palomo, Antonio, Guevara, Jesús A., Herrera-Haro, José, Lopez-Fernandez, Carmen, Johnston, Steve and Gosalvez, Jaime (2011). Elevated dietary intake of Zn-methionate is associated with increased sperm DNA fragmentation in the boar. Reproductive Toxicology, 31 (4), 570-573. doi: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2010.12.003
2011
Conference Publication
Regular handling reduces behavioural but not physiological stress responses of wombats (Lasiorhinus latifrons) towards humans
Hogan, LA, Phillips CJC., Janssen T,, Horsup, A, Nicolson V, Keeley T,, Lisle A, and Johnston.SD, (2011). Regular handling reduces behavioural but not physiological stress responses of wombats (Lasiorhinus latifrons) towards humans. Animals and the Environment, a shared responsibility, Brisbane Australia, July, 2011.
2011
Journal Article
Differential resistance of mammalian sperm chromatin to oxidative stress as assessed by a two-tailed comet assay
Enciso, Maria, Johnston, Stephen D. and Gosalvez, Jaime (2011). Differential resistance of mammalian sperm chromatin to oxidative stress as assessed by a two-tailed comet assay. Reproduction Fertility and Development, 23 (5), 633-637. doi: 10.1071/RD10269
2011
Book Chapter
The novel reproductive biology of the female flying-fox and its implications for the successful development of an artificial insemination programme
Melville, D. F., O'Brien, G. M. and Johnston, S. D. (2011). The novel reproductive biology of the female flying-fox and its implications for the successful development of an artificial insemination programme. The biology and conservation of Australasian bats. (pp. 128-135) edited by Bradley Law, Peggy Eby, Daniel Lunney and Lindy Lumsden. Mosman, NSW Australia: Royal Zoological Society of New South Wales. doi: 10.7882/FS.2011.015
2011
Conference Publication
The response of southern hairy-nosed wombats (Lasiorhinus Latifrons) to the presence of faeces
Descovich, K, Phillips, C., Nicholson, V., Johnston, S and Lisle, A., (2011). The response of southern hairy-nosed wombats (Lasiorhinus Latifrons) to the presence of faeces. International Ethological Conference and the Animal Behaviour Society annual conference, Indiana University,, July, 2011.
2011
Journal Article
The effect of environmental variables on the activity patterns of the southern hairy-nosed wombat (Lasiorhinus latifrons) in captivity: Onset, duration and cessation of activity
Hogan, Lindsay A., Johnston, Steve D., Lisle, Allan T., Horsup, Alan B., Janssen, Tina and Phillips, Clive J. C. (2011). The effect of environmental variables on the activity patterns of the southern hairy-nosed wombat (Lasiorhinus latifrons) in captivity: Onset, duration and cessation of activity. Australian Journal of Zoology, 59 (1), 35-41. doi: 10.1071/ZO11006
2011
Book Chapter
Mapping alkali-labile sites in mammalian spermatozoa
Gosálvez, J., Cortés-Gutiérrez, E. I., Dávila-Rodríguez, M. I., Fernández, J. L., López-Fernández, C. and Johnston, S. D. (2011). Mapping alkali-labile sites in mammalian spermatozoa. Animal reproduction: new research developments. (pp. 219-232) New York, NY, United States: Nova Science Publishers.
2010
Journal Article
Genetic variation and structuring in the threatened koala populations of Southeast Queensland
Lee, Kristen E., Seddon, Jennifer M., Corley, Sean W., Ellis, William A. H., Johnston, Stephen D., de Villiers, Deidré L., Preece, Harriet J. and Carrick, Frank N. (2010). Genetic variation and structuring in the threatened koala populations of Southeast Queensland. Conservation Genetics, 11 (6), 2091-2103. doi: 10.1007/s10592-009-9987-9
2010
Journal Article
Fragmentation dynamics of frozen-thawed ram sperm DNA is modulated by sperm concentration
Lopez-Fernandez, C., Johnston, S. D., Fernandez, J. L., Wilson, R. J. and Gosalvez, J. (2010). Fragmentation dynamics of frozen-thawed ram sperm DNA is modulated by sperm concentration. Theriogenology, 74 (8), 1362-1370. doi: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2010.06.006
2010
Journal Article
The behaviour and environmental enrichment of captive mahogany gliders (Petaurus gracilis)
Muller, Tracy L., Ensabella, Traza J., Booth, Rosie, Johnston, Stephen D. and Phillips, Clive J. C. (2010). The behaviour and environmental enrichment of captive mahogany gliders (Petaurus gracilis). Australian Mammalogy, 32 (2), 109-116. doi: 10.1071/AM09035
2010
Journal Article
Stereotypies and environmental enrichment in captive southern hairy-nosed wombats, Lasiorhinus latifrons
Hogan, LA, Johnston, SD, Lisle, A, Horsup, AB, Janssen, T and Phillips, CJC (2010). Stereotypies and environmental enrichment in captive southern hairy-nosed wombats, Lasiorhinus latifrons. Applied Animal Behaviour Science, 126 (1-2), 85-95. doi: 10.1016/j.applanim.2010.05.009
2010
Journal Article
Non-invasive methods of oestrus detection in captive southern hairy-nosed wombats (Lasiorhinus latifrons)
Hogan, L. A., Phillips, C. J. C., Lisle, A., Keeley, T., Horsup, A. B., Janssen, T. and Johnston, S. D. (2010). Non-invasive methods of oestrus detection in captive southern hairy-nosed wombats (Lasiorhinus latifrons). Animal Reproduction Science, 119 (3-4), 293-304. doi: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2010.01.006
2010
Journal Article
Monitoring male southern hairy-nosed wombat (Lasiorhinus latifrons) reproductive function and seasonality in a captive population
Hogan, L. A., Phillips, C. J. C., Horsup, A. B., Keeley, T., Nicolson, V., Janssen, T., Lisle, A. and Johnston, S. D. (2010). Monitoring male southern hairy-nosed wombat (Lasiorhinus latifrons) reproductive function and seasonality in a captive population. Animal Reproduction Science, 118 (2-4), 377-387. doi: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2009.10.001
2010
Journal Article
Studies of male reproduction in the Greater Bilby Macrotis lagotis
Johnston, S. D., Rumph, C., Lucht, M., Stenzel, D., Nicolson, V., Blyde, D. and Keeley, T. (2010). Studies of male reproduction in the Greater Bilby Macrotis lagotis. Australian Zoologist, 35 (2), 315-330. doi: 10.7882/AZ.2010.020
2010
Journal Article
Seasonal reproduction in wild and captive male koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) populations in south-east Queensland
Allen, Camryn D., de Villiers, Deidre L., Manning, Brett D., Dique, David S., Burridge, Michelle, Chafer, Mandy L., Nicolson, Vere N., Jago, Sophia C., McKinnon, Allan J., Booth, Rosemary J., Mckee, Jeff J., Pyne, Michael J., Zee, Yeng P., Lundie-Jenkins, Geoff, Theilemann, Peter, Wilson, Richard J., Carrick, Frank N. and Johnston, Stephen D. (2010). Seasonal reproduction in wild and captive male koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) populations in south-east Queensland. Reproduction Fertility and Development, 22 (4), 695-709. doi: 10.1071/RD09113
2010
Journal Article
Using a GnRH agonist to obtain an index of testosterone secretory capacity in the cockatiel (Nymphicus hollandicus) and sulphur-crested cockatoo (Cacatua galerita)
Lovas, E. M., Johnston, S. D. and Filippich, L. J. (2010). Using a GnRH agonist to obtain an index of testosterone secretory capacity in the cockatiel (Nymphicus hollandicus) and sulphur-crested cockatoo (Cacatua galerita). Australian Veterinary Journal, 88 (1-2), 52-56. doi: 10.1111/j.1751-0813.2009.00533.x
2010
Journal Article
Reproductive behaviour of the southern-hairy nosed wombat (Lasiorhinus latifrons)
Hogan, Lindsay, Phillips, Clive, Lisle, Allan, Horsup, Alan, Janssen, Tina and Johnston, Stephen (2010). Reproductive behaviour of the southern-hairy nosed wombat (Lasiorhinus latifrons). Australian Journal of Zoology, 58 (6), 350-361. doi: 10.1071/ZO10068
2010
Journal Article
Oestrus in the Julia Creek dunnart (Sminthopsis douglasi) is associated with wheel running behaviour but not necessarily changes in body weight, food consumption or pouch morphology
Pollock, K., Booth, R., Wilson, R., Keeley, T., Grogan, K., Kennerley, P. and Johnston, S. D. (2010). Oestrus in the Julia Creek dunnart (Sminthopsis douglasi) is associated with wheel running behaviour but not necessarily changes in body weight, food consumption or pouch morphology. Animal Reproduction Science, 117 (1-2), 135-146. doi: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2009.03.005
2009
Journal Article
Remote monitoring of the behaviour and activity of captive southern hairy-nosed wombats (Lasiorhinus latifroms)
Hogan, Lindsay A., Phillips, Clive J. C., Lisle, Allan, Horsup, Alan B., Janssen, Tina and Johnston, Stephen D. (2009). Remote monitoring of the behaviour and activity of captive southern hairy-nosed wombats (Lasiorhinus latifroms). Australian Mammalogy, 31 (2), 123-135. doi: 10.1071/AM09023
Funding
Current funding
Past funding
Supervision
Availability
- Associate Professor Steve Johnston is:
- Not available for supervision
Supervision history
Current supervision
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Doctor Philosophy
Comparative Anatomy and Physiology of Monotreme and Marsupial Accessory Glands
Principal Advisor
Other advisors: Professor Chiara Palmieri, Dr Taylor Pini
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Doctor Philosophy
Novel methods for improving in vitro production of bovine embryos
Associate Advisor
Other advisors: Dr Andres Gambini
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Doctor Philosophy
The Development and Application of Assisted Breeding Technology for theConservation of Avian wildlife
Associate Advisor
Other advisors: Professor Bob Doneley, Dr Taylor Pini
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Doctor Philosophy
Hatching out the secrets of female monotreme reproductive biology
Associate Advisor
Other advisors: Professor Chiara Palmieri, Dr Taylor Pini
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Doctor Philosophy
Novel strategies for marsupial genetic preservation and in vitro embryo production
Associate Advisor
Other advisors: Dr Andres Gambini
Completed supervision
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2023
Doctor Philosophy
New insights into the reproductive physiology of female short-beaked echidnas
Principal Advisor
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2021
Doctor Philosophy
The effect of Chlamydia on male koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) fertility
Principal Advisor
Other advisors: Professor Chiara Palmieri
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2021
Doctor Philosophy
The effect of heat stress on testicular thermoregulation in the bovine
Principal Advisor
-
2019
Doctor Philosophy
The establishment of a Living Genome Resource Bank utilising genetic analysis and assisted breeding technology: a case study on the koala (Phascolarctos cinereus)
Principal Advisor
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2018
Doctor Philosophy
Spermatogenesis and Sperm Assessment in the Black Tiger Prawn, Penaeus monodon
Principal Advisor
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2018
Master Philosophy
The assessment of reproductive function, behaviour and adrenal physiology in captive male southern hairy-nosed wombats (Lasiorhinus latifrons)
Principal Advisor
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2018
Doctor Philosophy
The use of urine as a tool to analyse the reproductive function of captive female southern hairy-nosed wombats (Lasiorhinus latifrons)
Principal Advisor
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2015
Doctor Philosophy
New insights into the Reproductive Physiology and Management of the Female Koala (Phascolarctos cinereus): Factors affecting the control of the oestrous cycle
Principal Advisor
Other advisors: Associate Professor Stephen Anderson
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2013
Doctor Philosophy
The Novel Reproductive Biology of Flying-foxes (Pteropus spp.): Implications for the Development of Assisted Reproductive Technologies
Principal Advisor
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2012
Master Philosophy
Chlamydial Disease of the Male Koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) Reproductive Tract
Principal Advisor
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2009
Doctor Philosophy
Refinement of Artificial Insemination Program in the Koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) with an Emphasis on Male Factor Fertility
Principal Advisor
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2009
Doctor Philosophy
Functional Approaches to the Development of Koala Sperm Cryopreservation Techniques
Principal Advisor
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2005
Master Philosophy
REPRODUCTIVE BIOLOGY OF THE MALE AND FEMALE COMMON WOMBAT, Vombatus ursinus: STUDIES TOWARDS THE DEVELOPMENT OF AN ARTIFICAL INSEMINATION PROTOCAL
Principal Advisor
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2023
Doctor Philosophy
Understanding the koala retrovirus epidemic: genetic diversity, transmission and immunogenicity
Associate Advisor
Other advisors: Professor Keith Chappell
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2021
Doctor Philosophy
Further insights into the pathogenesis of Chlamydiosis and characterisation of immune cells in the reproductive tract of koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus)
Associate Advisor
Other advisors: Professor Chiara Palmieri
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2020
Doctor Philosophy
The physiological and behavioural adaptations in koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus) in response to climate change
Associate Advisor
Other advisors: Dr Bill Ellis
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2013
Doctor Philosophy
REPRODUCTIVE BIOLOGY OF THE MALE AUSTRALIAN PARROT An emphasis on the cockatiel (Nymphicus hollandicus)
Associate Advisor
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2012
Doctor Philosophy
The behavioural biology and management of southern hairy-nosed wombats (Lasiorhinus latifrons) in captivity
Associate Advisor
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2010
Doctor Philosophy
The behaviour and reproductive biology of captive southern hairy-nosed wombats (Lasiorhinus latifrons)
Associate Advisor
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2008
Master Philosophy
Longitudinal Changes in Testosterone Secretion and Agressive Behaviour and the Use of a GnRH Agonist in Male Australian Sea Lions, Neophoca Cinerea
Associate Advisor
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2008
Doctor Philosophy
The identification of factors responsible for boar testicular hypertrophy following neonatal hemicastration
Associate Advisor
Media
Enquiries
Contact Associate Professor Steve Johnston directly for media enquiries about:
- Animal reproduction
- Bilbies
- Breeding technologies - for animals
- Captive breeding programs
- Crocodile reproduction
- Cryopreservation - animal genetics
- Embryo transfer - animals
- Exotic animals - reproductive biology
- IVF - for animals
- Kangaroos
- Koalas
- Koalas - reproductive biology
- Reproduction in animals
- Rhinos
- Spermatology - animal studies
- Wildlife reproductive biology
- Wombats
- Zoo captive breeding
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