Renae is interested in the influence of the ocean's physical and biotic environment on the distribution and population dynamics of marine benthic organisms. Much of her research integrates the fields of ecology, oceanography, and fishery science toward a better mechanistic understanding of marine populations and communities. Her current research focuses on the spatial arrangement and extent of habitats relevant to commercially important species like prawns and lobster; working closely with fisheries scientists to help inform the spatial management of key fisheries.