Raubenheimer co-developed with Stephen Simpson nutritional geometry, a quantitative framework for modelling how nutrient mixtures interact with behaviour and physiology to shape performance. His studies span species from insects, spiders, reptiles, fish, and birds to giant pandas, grizzly bears, and primates, including humans. 

His research combines laboratory and field approaches to address fundamental questions in biology and ecology, and applied questions in animal conservation, human health, and animal nutrition.  

He has published over 400 journal papers and book chapters, co-authored two books, and in recent years received the Eureka Prize for Excellence in Interdisciplinary Research (2022) and the World Obesity Federation Wertheimer Award (2024) (with Simpson) for the co-discovery of protein leverage as a driver of obesity. 

His expertise has taken him to working in over 49 countries, and has over 286 scientific publications and one patent. He holds a BSc in Botany & Zoology (1970-1973: University of London) and a PhD by research in Fish Nutrition (1973-1978: University of Wales).

Dr Tacon serves on the editorial board of numerous scientific journals, including Aquaculture Research, Fishes, Reviews in Fisheries & Aquaculture, Critical Insights in Aquaculture (as Editor in Chief) and is Technical Editor of Aquafeed.com and Hatchery Feed & Management.