Based on the far south coast of NSW, Cayne is a marine ecologist, consultant, and adjunct researcher at the University of Tasmania. His work mostly revolves around the ecology of kelp forests and temperate reef systems, along with seaweed aquaculture and restoration

Much of Cayne’s work focuses on how kelp forests and reef ecosystems function and persist, especially in the face of increasing stressors such as climate-change. He also applies this knowledge to explore the climate resilience and adaptation of coastal activities such as aquaculture and habitat restoration. Cayne seeks to answer fundamental ecological questions while ensuring his research has practical applications, and he actively engages with a variety of partners, including First Nations’ communities and organisations, industry, NGOs, community groups, and government.

Additional research areas include the socioecology of reef systems and novel marine interventions (e.g. restoration, blue carbon), nature-based solutions and market-based mechanisms for environmental change, and First Nations’ Traditional Knowledge of seaweeds and rocky reefs.