Paul Rymer is the Lead Investigator in the Cumberland Plain Research Program, spearheading efforts to conserve and restore the critically endangered Cumberland Plain Woodland. His research focuses on understanding plant adaptation and resilience to environmental changes, providing essential data to guide the implementation of the Cumberland Plain Conservation Plan.

At Western Sydney University, Rymer is a core member of the Hawkesbury Institute for the Environment, where he leads research in plant ecophysiology and evolutionary ecology. His work addresses critical biodiversity challenges and supports evidence-based conservation strategies through collaborations with government, industry, and community stakeholders.