Dr Lulie Melling is a distinguished authority on tropical peat research, renowned for her passion for exploration and unwavering commitment to promoting sustainable development and conservation efforts. She completed her bachelor's degree in Geography from the University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, which provided a solid foundation for her later studies. However, it was during her master's degree in Soil Science and Land Evaluation at the University of Reading, UK, in 1995 that she developed an intense interest in peat soils, which led her to pursue a PhD at Hokkaido University, Japan, where she earned her doctorate in 2005. Her doctoral research focused on greenhouse gas fluxes from tropical peatlands in Sarawak, Malaysia, which significantly contributed to tropical peat research.
In 2008, Dr Melling became the founding member and director of the Sarawak Tropical Peat Research Unit, now the Sarawak Tropical Peat Research Institute (TROPI). She has since been working on several research projects involving peatland ecosystems, developing strategies for sustainable peatland management, and working with local communities to promote environmental sustainability. Her current research focuses on greenhouse gas fluxes from tropical peatlands, using advanced research technologies such as eddy covariance coupled with the Internet of Things.
Her dedication to her work and passion for the environment have earned her widespread recognition and respect in the scientific community. Together with the institute, she produces upcoming scientists to hone their skills to better serve Sarawak and various stakeholders by facilitating the completion of several PhDs, Masters, and undergraduate degrees at multiple universities. She has also served on numerous committees and advisory roles, such as the National Committee of the International Peat Society, the President of the Malaysian Peat Society, and the Asia Flux Science Steering Committee member of the Asia Flux Network.
Dr Melling's undertakings have earned her appointments as an expert consultant, fellow, ambassador, technical advisor, and researcher in various boards, taskforce, and local and international working groups, illustrating her community engagement. Her work has been instrumental in advancing our understanding of tropical peatlands and their role in climate change. Her contributions to the field have helped promote sustainable development and conservation efforts in Malaysia and beyond.
Dr Melling was elected as a Fellow of the Malaysia Academy of Science in 2023