Andrew's background and training is in analytical chemistry and toxin research. Since the late 1990s his research became coral reef-focussed, including studies on the natural chemistry and microbiology responsible for coral larval settlement. He also spent two summer seasons identifying contaminants and their effects on marine biota in Antarctica. Andrew's research now focuses on understanding the combined effects of pollution and climate change on tropical marine organisms. Pollutants of interest include pesticides, metals, petroleum products, coal and sediments from dredging, while the marine organisms include all of the life history stages of coral, micro and macroalgae, sponges and fish.