Research Supervision Award Finalists
Awarded to individuals or teams who have provided outstanding supervision to Higher Degree by Research candidate.
Professor Thayaparan Gajendran, School of Architecture and Built Environment
Professor Thayaparan Gajendran exemplifies supervision excellence as a mentor, guiding 25 PhD completions and shaping careers across academia, government, and industry. His long-term mentorship extends beyond graduation, supporting alumni in publishing, securing grants, and building international collaborations. Known for empathy and rigour, he empowers independence while ensuring strong publication, grant, and collaboration outcomes. Collectively, his students have produced more than 50 journal articles, 30 conference papers, book chapters, and media pieces including The Conversation and radio interviews. Several have won best paper awards, and one alumnus has secured over $1.2 million in research funding since graduating. Professor Gajendran’s approach fosters inclusive, globally connected researchers whose impact reflects his transformative role in shaping the next generation of leaders.
Associate Professor Andrea Griffin, School of Environmental and Life Sciences
Associate Professor Andrea Griffin is a seasoned supervisor of HDR students, who offers a scaffolded approach to research training. Her approach involves structured learning of research skills and knowledge early in candidature, while fostering independence and self-sufficiency later in candidature. With nine completions and 12 current candidates, Andrea encourages students to publish, present, and build global networks. She models the research process through her own engagement with academia and industry and through her dissemination of research findings through publishing and presenting research internationally.
Dr Rebecca Hodder, School of Medicine and Public Health
Dr Rebecca Hodder is an exceptional mentor and research supervisor whose commitment to student development, academic excellence and genuine care have shaped the careers of numerous PhD candidates. Rebecca has supervised six PhD completions and currently supervises four candidates, supporting students to conduct complex studies and publish collaboratively with global leaders. With over 150 publications, $8 million in funding, and global leadership in living systematic reviews, Rebecca models excellence in supervision, research innovation, and student wellbeing.
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.