Founder & Lead Scientist
Dr Natacha Juste-Poinapen
An interdisciplinary scientist turning rigorous research into practical action for healthier ecosystems and more resilient communities.
Science in service of people and nature
Dr Juste-Poinapen is a microbial ecologist, environmental scientist and sustainability specialist whose work connects scientific depth with empathy, local knowledge and real-world delivery.
Her experience spans microbial ecology, water quality, aquaculture innovation, food systems, environmental assessment, monitoring and evaluation, data analysis and capacity building. She is particularly skilled at recognising patterns across complex systems and designing practical experimental approaches that help institutions and communities make better-informed decisions.
Having worked across Europe, Africa and Asia-Pacific—including five years living in Fiji—she brings an international perspective grounded in the realities of island nations, fragile ecosystems and resource-constrained settings. Her dual Mauritian–Australian nationality, together with her multilingual abilities, supports thoughtful collaboration across cultures and disciplines.
A career shaped by applied impact
JNP Fiji Limited
From 2014 to 2020, she led work in environmental microbiology, sustainable water management and scientific capacity building, combining advanced methods with community and government partnerships.
Oyster Heaven
As Lead Scientist, she advances marine ecosystem restoration research, investigating how microbial communities, water quality and habitat conditions influence oyster-reef recovery and resilience.
Nucleus
She founded Nucleus to extend this work internationally—bridging research and implementation so environmental solutions are scientifically credible, locally relevant and designed to endure.
Areas of expertise
A transdisciplinary practice connecting environmental science, sustainable development and the people responsible for long-term change.
How she works
Dr Juste-Poinapen believes that durable solutions are built with people, not imposed on them. Her approach combines evidence-based research with meaningful participation, respecting local and Indigenous knowledge while giving communities, researchers and decision-makers the tools to carry progress forward themselves.
Purpose
To use science generously—restoring nature, sharing knowledge and helping others build a more resilient future.Research, publications and applied projects
Follow Dr Juste-Poinapen’s scientific record and see how that expertise has been applied across environmental assessment, water quality and restoration projects.