Research Highlights
Explore groundbreaking research from our researchers. Learn about our staff's cutting-edge initiatives and discoveries that are pushing boundaries and solving global challenges.
Filter Highlights
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Cut-through health messages for young adults
Dr Lee Ashton’s research in the areas of health and nutrition is helping to deliver critical information to a notoriously hard-to-reach group: young Australian adults.
Giving ‘place attachment’ a seat at the decision-making table
Hedda has worked with rural communities impacted by extractive industries. Instigated by her post-doctoral research, which led to a growing interest in the anthropological dimensions of both built and natural environments, as well as the impact of large-scale infrastructure and development projects on community dynamics, identity and sense of belonging.
International experience in a resilient industry
Currently working at the University of Newcastle as a Lecturer and Researcher, Dr Taiwo Akanbi specialises in the study of food waste and valorisation.
Putting AI, humour and insight into the complaints process
Christine’s prime area of focus is how complaints processes can be more accessible and equitable for groups of consumers who are vulnerable, for example, for people who speak English as a second language (ESL).
Renewable energy technologies: being part of the solution
If you ask Electrochemical Engineer Dr Jessica Allen what energises her the most in her field at present, she’ll talk enthusiastically about the burgeoning field that is energy technology, in particular, electrochemistry and the development of new renewable energy technologies.
Why Plasma Matters
Dr Behnam Akhavan is taking a range of biomedical and environmental problems and addressing them with a novel solution – plasma surface engineering.
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NIER: Global leaders in research
Prof Alan Broadfoot is the Executive Director of the Newcastle Institute for Energy and Resources (NIER), one of the University’s flagship research institutes established a decade ago to provide practical and viable benefits to industry through a collaborative engagement model.
Predicting advanced human thinking and problem-solving
Scott is a cognitive scientist with a Bachelor of Science (Psychology), a Bachelor of Mathematics, a Bachelor of Science and a PhD in Psychology, all from the University of Newcastle.
Reimagining higher education equity for better social outcomes
Over the past decade, Penny has led the development of the Centre of Excellence for Equity in Higher Education. And, in 2023, as a result of the Centre becoming internationally recognised, she became the UNESCO Chair in Equity, Social Justice and Higher Education.
Save life with its quality
Internationally recognised academic and active practicing trauma and orthopaedic surgeon, with special clinical and research interest in polytrauma, traumatic shock resuscitation, multiple organ failure, pelvic and acetabulum fractures.
Shaping a healthier, happier Australia
Jane has a wealth of experience spanning several decades. Graduating with an MBBS from Sydney University, Jane subsequently studied and worked in the beautiful sandstone buildings of the University, paving the way to a varied and challenging career.
The fast-evolving landscape of respiratory virus drug development
For a kid who was fascinated by viruses – he found them “pretty cool but a bit scary” – to now be at the forefront of research that could help protect us from a range of respiratory viruses is the realisation of a long-held ambition for viral immunologist Associate Professor Nathan Bartlett.
The lure of pure mathematics
Professor Florian Breuer’s research is guided by a profound passion and curiosity for pure mathematics. His specialty area is number theory, a fascinating field of mathematics that seeks to better understand whole numbers and their properties.
Uncovering the Social Barriers to a Greener Future
Dr Bowden is currently working with Professors Daniel Nyberg at the University of Queensland and Christopher Wright at the University of Sydney on an ARC funded research project looking at how key industries in Australia are adapting to climate change.
Using avatars and VR/AR to shape a functional tomorrow
Dr Jacqueline Bailey’s core area of research is human-centred computing (HCC), focusing on the development and use of virtual humans, known as avatars, in serious gaming, simulation, and training.
Using financial insights to uplift businesses and lives
Originally born in Denmark, Christina's work could be seen as bending into the achievements of her motherland – a country with a superior work-life balance and one of the highest financial literacy rates in the world.
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Building disaster resilience by pushing a proactive approach
Thomas’ academic credentials include a Doctor of Philosophy in Disaster Management, a Bachelor of Construction Management and a Master of Disaster Preparedness & Reconstruction, all from the University of Newcastle.
Cerebrospinal fluid, strokes and saving lives through new therapies
Kirsten’s research focuses on understanding how cerebrospinal fluid—essentially, the fluid that surrounds and cushions your brain and spine—helps maintain brain health.
Deciphering complex diseases
Professor Murray Cairns’ new approach to the onset of complex diseases could mark the beginning of targeted prevention and treatment options that drive improved patient outcomes.
Exploring Liminal Borders and Revolutionary Realities
Dr Kit Candlin is Senior Lecturer in the History of the Americas at the University of Newcastle Australia. He is a past President of the Australian Association of Caribbean Studies and a member of the Centre for the Study of Violence.
Improving health outcomes through precision nutrition
Laureate Professor Clare Collins’ research in nutrition technologies and interventions to personalise nutrition therapies has had a major impact on current thinking around nutrition and dietary patterns in health and chronic disease prevention.
Loans, housing and young people
Dr Julia Cook is a youth sociologist whose research is revealing how housing and family finance impacts the lives of young people.
Pushing towards midwifery continuity of care
The crux of Allison's work to date has been focused on moving away from the traditional maternity care model, where women are seen by multiple midwives, obstetricians and GPs without continuity.
Reimagining the relationship between corporations and society
In 2010, Tim became a lecturer in the School of Law and Justice at the University of Newcastle, which has given him the opportunity to broaden and deepen his research into what kinds of laws and regulatory processes have the most potential to push corporations to act in a more morally responsible manner.
Research that’s literally helping to build a better world
Before joining the academic path, she worked in industry for years, she is currently a Spanish Registered Architect. she was a project architect at Grupo Aranea in Spain, a design architect at BCHO Architects in South Korea, and a graduate architect at DVA in South Korea and at MHNDU in Australia.
Solving real-world problems through new materials
One of the key areas Dylan is looking at while working in the Advanced Materials group at Newcastle, alongside Dr Heber Sugo and Prof Erich Kisi, is developing a new call of metal alloys that can be used for storing thermal energy.
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Discovering the roots of persecution of the Roma
Dr Sacha Davis’ research seeks to understand why the Roma of Central and Eastern Europe have been discriminated against for hundreds of years, a process that’s continuing today.
Fighting social inequities with research
Dr Kate Davies is a sociologist with a fierce commitment to social justice. Her work aims to break the cycle of social disadvantage and poorer life and health outcomes by empowering and respecting marginalised voices.
Finding our place in the world
Associate Professor Michelle Duffy is fascinated by the ways in which we interact with our physical, social and emotional worlds to form our identities, build our relationships and find a sense of belonging.
Shaping the teachers of tomorrow
Associate Professor Debra Donnelly is researching how best to support pre-service teachers while also focusing on history education and how film influences our historical consciousness.
Targeting the path of most resistance
Dr Ryan Duchatel, a Postdoctoral Fellow with the University’s School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, is on a mission to identify combination therapies that inhibit a rare but deadly form of childhood brain cancer.
Understanding our professional selves
By providing a glimpse into the human psyche, Dr Heather Douglas’ work in the field of organisational psychology is contributing to more effective systems, structures, and interventions for workplaces and their teams.
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Collaboration, creativity and solving social challenges
For a decade prior to joining the University of Newcastle, Paul worked at the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) in the UK, where he was Director of Research and Innovation in the College of Culture and the Creative Industries and Chair of Creative and Digital Technologies.
Engaging the power of creativity
Since the completion of her PhD in 2016, Helen has been exploring how music affects the mind, body and soul and the impact it has on self-care, empowerment and creating connections. Helen’s current focus is on creative ageing through transformative engagement with music.
Exoplanets and the search for life beyond Earth
Tom is an observational astronomer, specialising in exoplanets and the study of their atmospheres. To date,has research has primarily focused on gas giant and sub-Neptune exoplanets,
Forecasting and the power of big data
Dr Ali Eshragh is finding new ways to effectively analyse big data for forecasting. In doing so, he is setting the stage to markedly advance crucial industry practices.
Towards a more disaster resilient and sustainable future
As the world faces increasing number of natural hazards, international scholars and leaders like Dr Temitope Egbelakin are working to provide sustainable global solutions and strategies to create communities that are more resilient.
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Building a ‘Team Australia’ approach to defeat brain cancer
Leading the Patient Experience stream at the MHF Centre, Mike is committed to delivering more for brain cancer patients and their families. He’s worked across the world, in clinics, universities, research centres and hospitals.
Connecting rough-and-tumble play with dad to child development
Dr Emily Freeman is researching the positive developmental impact of children ‘roughhousing’ with dad.
Every student aspires, so let’s help them achieve
Beyond the university, some of her collaborators include the NSW Department of Education and the Australian Department of Education. She’s currently collaborating on the new aspirations work with the Australian Department of Employment and Workplace Relations and the Australian Centre for Student Access and Success.
Making change for a more sustainable tomorrow
As a passionate advocate for sustainable energy production, Dr Mahshid Firouzi is helping educate industries and students to move towards a cleaner, more affordable future. Her work has been widely recognised as the catalyst for change.
Partnering with the Pacific for a greener future
With over 15 years research and field experience in the Pacific, Australia, New Zealand, Nepal and Mexico, Sascha coordinates the University of Newcastle's Pacific Node in partnership with the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP).
Researching to improve sexual and reproductive rights
As part of her current work, Emma gathers and creates data about sexual health in NSW and Australia. She’s using this research to generate priority areas and develop ways to increase access to services and/or improve health outcomes.
Using immersive technologies to transform public spaces
Nicholas Foulcher’ research is an intersection of social science, architectural theory and the evolving computational technologies and practices that shape them.
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ACRE researcher awarded prestigious Fulbright scholarship
Myfanwy Graham is Principal Specialist Medicines Information Pharmacist for the NSW Cannabis Medicines Advisory Service and researcher with the Australian Centre for Cannabinoid Clinical and Research Excellence (ACRE).
Ensuring construction is up and re-skilled for future industry transformations
Dr Buddhini Ginigaddara's research involves modernising construction training and education in the built environment to develop pathways for up skilling and re-skilling.
Finding answers to cancer’s complex problems
Dr Moira Graves always hoped to forge a career in research, and now she’s found a home in a team who like ‘poking a problem’ as much as she does.
Medical research breakthroughs start small
Dr Renee Goreham’s interdisciplinary research into natural nanomaterials holds the promise of exciting medical breakthroughs in the areas of drug delivery, disease diagnosis and treatment.
Visualising the landscapes of our future
Dr Beth George’s award-winning architectural research explores the transformation of spaces, the history of architecture, and how we can honour the built environment we inhabit.
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Ensuring future generations enjoy our world’s biodiversity
Matt is an applied conservation scientist. This means he talks to conservation managers in the private, non-governmental and government sectors about the problems they’re facing and works out ways to solve them.
Solving real-world problems with microbial discoveries
Dr Emily Hoedt is making exciting discoveries in the field of microbiology. From optimising soldier cognition to improving surgical outcomes, she's showing what a big difference small things can make.
Studying marine microbes to protect the planet
Megan’s career has spanned Australia and the US, and she has worked in five different institutions in the past two decades for her PhD, post-docs and now as a permanent academic at the University of Newcastle.
Using IP and imagery to show how law and society interact
Marie’s work examines how law interacts with society, especially regarding visual imagery and artistic practices. She also investigates how social norms and informal rules shape creativity and copying in the shadow of formal law.
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A deep dive to understand vulnerable coasts
There’s more to our beaches than where you place your towel and most of it is underwater – Dr Michael Kinsela is revealing the secrets of the seafloor to discover how the resilience of coasts to storms and climate change depends on what lies beneath.
Building better solutions to age-old challenges
Dr Sittimont Kanjanabootra is helping to streamline construction processes and practices to save time and money for hard-working manufacturing and building firms in Australia.
Culture at the core of empowering community
Michelle has a BA in Arts (Hons) and MA in Social Science (Social Work) and has worked across the Hunter New England area as an artist, community development practitioner and social worker. Her key focus is on Aboriginal health and tobacco control with a growing track record in Indigenous research methodologies and ethics.
Sharing lessons from soldier trauma and anti-war protesting
Effie’s research is in the social history of war, looking predominantly at Australians' experiences of war, both on the battlefield and home front.
Understanding the Middle East's continuum of conflict
Historian and award-winning researcher Dr Ümit Kurt is digging into hidden stories to better understand the transformations of imperial structures in the Modern Middle East and late Ottoman Empire – and their role in constituting the republican regime.
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A new frontier in space law and justice technology
Dr Bin Li’s work lies at the intersection of technology, law and justice. His research assesses the legal regulation of space technologies and explores the benefits and risks that new technologies pose for justice reform.
Cultivating children’s creativity
Dr Nicole Leggett is researching the importance of developing creative thinking through early childhood education and care.
Driving equality, excellence and innovation in education
A dedicated educator, researcher and advocate for the teaching profession, Professor Susan Ledger is on a mission to inspire the next generation of teachers, shape the future of education and bring change to the system.
Replicating cyanobacterial CO2 capture to boost crops and fight climate change
The research being done by Ben and his team has paved the way for new strategies for enhanced crop production and biological CO2 capture using biotechnology. Their strategy coincides with a dramatic change in research focus around the world to use plant biotechnology to improve global food security.
Taking on the stubborn cells that cause cancer relapse
Heather’s work involves investigating the inner workings of cancer cells and finding new treatments for blood cancer. This involves studying the ‘epigenetic’ processes that control how genes are used.
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Aligning policy and practice for safer built environments
With almost two decades of development and construction industry experience, Dr Maund has seen first hand how regulatory policies guide and influence real-world outcomes.
Bringing youth-led peacebuilding into policy and practice
Young people are building peace every day. Through her research, Dr Caitlin Mollica is making these contributions visible to inform governments and other key stakeholders on strategies for more responsive, inclusive policy and practice.
Co-creating knowledges to decolonise democracy, political subjectivity and the academy
Associate Professor Sara C. Motta is a proud mestiza salvaje of Colombia Chibcha, Polish Jewish and Celtic lineages. She develops decolonising methodologies and emancipatory pedagogies to co-create critique of the violences and exclusions of raced and feminised subjects.
Democratising the Australian film industry
Dr Stuart McBratney is a filmmaker with a global audience and a heart for local talent. He has worked with production companies in Newcastle, Los Angeles, and Oradea, Romania to produce multiple feature-length films at a fraction of the usual Hollywood price tag—an impressive feat that changes the game for aspiring filmmakers.
Exploring transdisciplinary innovation and emerging technologies
Dr Benjamin Matthews’ research examines how communication, design and technology intersect to shape the future of industry, culture and sustainability.
From the lecture theatre to the big screen
Jack McGrath’s childhood love for stop-motion animation is now helping filmmakers explore new creative frontiers, merging traditional filmmaking techniques with the latest technologies.
Improving survival outcomes for AML using novel approaches
Heather is a postdoctoral cancer researcher at the University of Newcastle, driven by the potential of science to improve treatments for cancer patients. Originally planning a career in pharmacy, she found her undergraduate degree in biomedical science ignited a passion for research.
Leading and teaching the way to a healthier future for all
With over 25 years in research and teaching, Dr Malau-Aduli's focus is on how to teach and evaluate future doctors so they’re truly prepared to handle the industry's complex challenges.
Maternal influence: reducing the risk of childhood asthma
Dr Vanessa Murphy is determined to reduce the rates of asthma in our communities by controlling a mother’s asthma in pregnancy.
Powering a cleaner future for the next generation
Associate Professor Galina Mirzaeva is striving to develop cleaner energy solutions with the potential to support our technologically driven lifestyles—without depleting our natural environment.
Righting legal wrongs for the disadvantaged
He has an unrestricted practising certificate from the Law Society of NSW. He's Program Convenor of Newcastle School of Law and Justice's Practice Program (Practical Legal Training Program). He's also been admitted as a solicitor of the Supreme Court of NSW and the High Court of Australia.
Studying brain changes to better treat mental health
Dr Lizzie Manning is carrying out research to better understand neural activity, with the goal of developing more effective mental health treatments.
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Advancing access to justice and legal reform
Ray is currently collaborating with the criminal law divisions of legal aid offices across Australia. This research has enhanced our understanding of the challenges lawyers face in providing access to justice for groups already disadvantaged in the legal system.
Creating more equality for less privileged groups
Criminology lecturer and social justice scholar Dr Alice Neikirk is interested in how less privileged groups interact with more powerful institutions—with a view to positive change.
Helping promote humanised birth and reproductive justice
Researcher Dr Liz Newnham is a thought leader in midwifery, currently drawing on care ethics to solve the escalating crisis of dehumanising birth practices. Her goal is to facilitate positive change in practice and experience.
The nature-inspired design of machines
Dr Nasimul Noman is using nature as a blueprint for improving machine autonomy. It’s a field of study known as evolutionary machine learning and it has the potential to solve many real-world problems.
Understanding documentaries as a powerful social tool
Dr Kate Nash is a media and communications expert whose research is focused on the power of documentaries in shaping our worldview.
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Designing for good
Dr Simone O’Callaghan is passionate about using design to make people’s lives better, through human centred design practices.
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Affordable healthcare at what cost?
Professor Francesco Paolucci is an internationally acclaimed scholar and advisor using research to enhance policy in economics and public health, resulting in more equitable and efficient healthcare for communities worldwide.
Answering the space-age questions
Using the sun as his ‘laboratory’, Associate Professor David Pontin’s work is unravelling the complexities of astrophysical plasmas to help improve space exploration, space-weather modelling and modern technologies like GPS systems.
Feeding the future
In a world with an increasing population in the face of climate change, the question of how we continue to feed the world with limited arable land is one that Joey is looking to address.
From inequality to inclusive pedagogical environments
Sally is particularly passionate about communicating her research findings beyond academic channels to enact change and translate her findings into actionable interventions. To date, she’s played a major role in developing and executing several novel equity interventions.
Reducing harvested food waste
Currently working at the University of Newcastle as a lecturer and researcher, Dr Penta Pristijono chose to work in food science because of its universal relevance.
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Every child’s learning style is unique
Dr Laura Roche is committed to developing personalised, evidence-based interventions to help young people with neurodevelopmental disorders learn, communicate and flourish within society.
Giving definition and structure to comfort
As an Occupational Therapist Dr Anna Rose is used to solving problems. Which is why she has a focus on how we define and measure comfort.
Making health a medical education matter
In her University of Newcastle role, Charlotte is driving the school’s strategic vision, providing academic leadership to ensure effective operational management and promoting and developing an effective workplace culture to nurture and reward excellence in research, education and leadership/engagement.
Reimagining enabling education to improve lives
Bronwyn Relf’s research focuses on science curriculum and pedagogy for adults without a Year 12 qualification who are returning to university study via enabling programs and how well this prepares them for their undergraduate degree.
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Aboriginal health research led by communities
As a medical anthropologist, Kate makes space for community stories to be told. Her community-led research projects are helping to support the capacity, health and wellbeing of young people and remote Aboriginal communities in the Northern Territory.
A global sport business and industry change champion
Many Aussies love sport, but not everyone can indulge their passion by turning it into a career. But this is exactly what recognised global scholar and academic leader James Skinner has done, combining it with his other key interests: economics, management and sociology.
A Sporting Chance
Applying his performance environment and coaching know-how to his teaching, Dr Colin Sanctuary’s relationship building skills have seen him gather extensive professional networks over his years in professional sport which are reaping dividends for University of Newcastle and the Exercise and Sport Science students.
Behind the scenes of novel writing
Though Dr Michael Sala’s books have garnered prestigious awards, his greatest hope is to move, connect and enrich his readers through good storytelling.
Darren Southwell
Darren Southwell is a conservation scientist dedicated to saving species and nature before it’s too late. His research is making a significant impact not only locally and nationally across Australia but also on a global scale.
Preventing injury through movement-based interventions
Professor Snodgrass’ expertise in preventing and treating injury using movement originated from clinical interests over a decade of working as a physiotherapist in clinical practice.
Preventing the mental and behavioural risks of preterm birth
Julia's work is all about neurosteroid loss in preterm fetuses and how it can negatively impact the maturing brain.
Re-thinking carbon in the renewable energy sector
Dr Rohan Stanger is driven to find new and clever ways to use our carbon resources. With a career in coal and biomass research, he is well placed to see a global energy future that is founded on carbon – but not in the ways we are used to.
The inside story
With a passion for nuclear medicine, Melissa Shields is educating a whole new generation in a diagnostic method that helps us see a bigger picture of what’s going on in our bodies.
Using AI to implement a single patient record for seamless care
Passionate about advancing healthcare through research and education, Michelle is a registered nurse, a lecturer, and the nursing program convenor at the University of Newcastle’s School of Nursing and Midwifery.
Using digital technology to improve health and wellbeing
Nathan Scott’s research hopes to make rehabilitation more accessible for stroke survivors, allowing services normally conducted face-to-face to be delivered using mobile devices.
Using digital tech to drive tourism and hospitality forward
Marianna’s passion for hospitality runs deep. Born into a family with a long tradition in the hotel business, she grew up working in the industry. Her academic career, which includes a Master of Science, a Post Graduate Diploma in Business Analysis, and a PhD, has taken her around the world as she continues to teach and conduct research in the field.
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A question of research
Dr Meredith Tavener’s qualitative research work delves into the why and the how of health behaviour in order to help effect positive change.
Helping to build a better construction industry for all
Maggie's interest in her research came from having family in the construction business while she was growing up. As a child, she often went with her dad to sites to see progress and how he managed projects.
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Cybersecurity and defending the digital frontier
A renowned cybersecurity authority, Professor Vijay Varadharajan works with government, industry and research peers to thwart pervasive digital threats lurking within our online systems.
Exploring behavioural responses to marketing strategy
Sonia is currently a Senior Lecturer in Marketing and the Program Convenor of the MBA and WiMBA programs at the University of Newcastle.
Managing climate extremes in Australia
Dr Danielle Verdon-Kidd is researching the nature and triggers of extreme weather events, such as droughts, bushfires and storms to help our nation better prepare for what lies ahead.
Mind over Muscle
Dr Sarah Valkenborghs’ research aims to deliver the evidence needed so that everyone gets the right advice on the exercise they need to improve their health outcomes.
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Bringing literacy to numeracy
As an academic statistician and biostatistics teacher, Dr Natasha Weaver is equipping students with sound statistical knowledge and addressing anxiety associated with numeracy.
Cutting chronic disease risks and improving program uptake
Chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease and cancer can be prevented with the right early intervention. Through his research, Professor Luke Wolfenden is working to reduce the risks with targeted health programs and multi-system change.
Pioneering drone technology to protect Australia’s wildlife
As a researcher at the University of Newcastle, Ryan leads a small team of early career researchers developing cutting-edge drone-based monitoring tools that make it harder for species to be overlooked—and easier for governments, industry and communities to make informed, accountable choices.
Realigning the priorities of autism research for real-life benefits
Psychology and child development researcher Dr Olivia Whalen’s main focus is autism and ways that autistic people and their families can be better supported from the beginning.
Tech smart mental health solutions
Honorary Professor Rhonda Wilson is a Wiradjuri woman, experienced nurse and an internationally recognised mental health nursing scientist. Her work in e-health is paving the way for new digital therapeutic interventions that promote and support patient-centred care and increased wellbeing.
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Where land and water intertwine
Associate Professor In-Young Yeo’s work is helping to improve natural resource management, safeguarding our earth’s most precious assets and creating greater sustainability for this generation and the next.
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Intelligent software engineering
By mining a vast amount of software data, Associate Professor Hongyu Zhang is developing intelligent methods and tools that improve software quality and development productivity.
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.