About Curtin University

Dr. Ben Milbourn is a Senior Lecturer in the Faculty of Health Sciences at Curtin University, recognized for his significant contributions to occupational therapy practice and research, particularly in the areas of autism and mental health. His work focuses on vulnerable populations and strength-based approaches for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

Professor Sonya Girdler is a distinguished academic and researcher in the field of autism studies, affiliated with the School of Occupational Therapy, Social Work and Speech Pathology at Curtin University. As the Director of the Curtin Autism Research Group (CARG), she leads a team of over 100 members, including academics, PhD students, and autistic individuals, focusing on strengths-based approaches and interventions for autism. Professor Girdler's extensive experience spans various aspects of autism research, with particular emphasis on understanding functioning through the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) framework, developing and implementing strengths-based programs, conducting employment research, and evaluating evidence-based interventions. Her work has significantly contributed to improving the participation of autistic individuals in major life areas such as employment and education, with notable successes in peer mentoring programs for autistic university students and social skills training programs for autistic teenagers. Professor Girdler's research is characterized by a commitment to leveraging individual strengths, person-centered approaches, and addressing the priorities of the autistic community, making her a leading figure in autism research both nationally and internationally.

Iain Murray AM is a distinguished Professor in the School of Electrical Engineering, Computing and Mathematical Sciences at Curtin University, recognized for his expertise in networking, embedded systems, and assistive technology. With a career spanning over two decades, Murray has made significant contributions to both academia and society, particularly in the field of assistive technology for vision-impaired individuals.

Dr. Siavash Khaksar is a lecturer in the School of Electrical Engineering, Computing and Mathematical Sciences at Curtin University, specializing in embedded systems and digital hardware-software co-design. His academic journey includes a B.Sc. in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from Azad University, an M.Eng in Electrical Engineering with a focus on Embedded Systems from Curtin University, and a Ph.D. from Curtin University, completed in 2024, which focused on assistive technology and the use of motion sensors and machine learning in gamification of rehabilitation.

Associate Professor Cesar Ortega-Sanchez is a distinguished academic at Curtin University, specializing in computer systems engineering, digital design, and embedded systems. His diverse educational background includes a Computer Systems Engineering degree from the Metropolitan Autonomous University in Mexico, a Master of Science in Digital Systems from Brunel University, and a Doctor of Philosophy in Electronics from the University of York in the UK.

Dr. Yifei Ren is a Research Fellow at the Cisco Curtin Centre for Networks at Curtin University, specializing in cutting-edge areas of wireless communication, software-defined networks (SDN), machine learning, and IoT/embedded systems. His academic background includes a B.Eng. (Hons) and Ph.D. in telecommunication engineering from the University of Wollongong, completed in 2016 and 2019 respectively.

Dr. Wenn B. Lawson is a distinguished autism researcher, educator, and advocate who has made significant contributions to the field of autism studies and mental health. As an Adjunct Associate Professor at Curtin University and a neurodivergent practitioner himself, Lawson brings a unique perspective to his work that combines academic expertise with lived experience.

Professor Sonia Dickinson is a distinguished academic leader and researcher currently serving as the Deputy Pro Vice-Chancellor of the Faculty of Business and Law at Curtin University. With over two decades of experience in higher education, she has made significant contributions to the field, particularly in online and blended learning, earning both university and national recognition. Her research focuses on Communication and Engagement, with publications in top-tier marketing journals such as the European Journal of Marketing and Journal of Business Research. Professor Dickinson's expertise spans advertising regulation, message source effects, consumer empowerment, and brand authenticity. She serves on the editorial review board of the Journal of Marketing Communication, has secured a competitive Australian Research Council Discovery Grant, and actively supervises doctoral and masters research candidates. Her work in education innovation and research has established her as a respected figure in the academic community, bridging theoretical knowledge with practical applications in marketing and business education.

Dr. David A. McMeekin is a Senior Academic in Computer and Spatial Sciences at Curtin University, bringing a unique blend of expertise in software engineering, spatial technologies, and autism research. With a Ph.D. focused on the human aspects of software development, McMeekin has extensive experience in both academia and international NGO work. His diverse teaching portfolio spans cross-cultural communication, software engineering, programming languages, and spatial data processing. McMeekin's current research interests are twofold: he explores the delivery of spatial information through semantic web technologies, and develops technology solutions to facilitate the integration of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder into the workforce. This latter focus aligns with his involvement in the Curtin Autism Research Group (CARG), where he contributes to projects aimed at creating career paths in software quality assurance for people with ASD. McMeekin's multidisciplinary approach and international experience make him a valuable asset in bridging the gap between computer science, spatial technologies, and autism research, fostering innovative solutions for both technological advancement and social inclusion.

Tristan W. Reed is a skilled Software Engineer and researcher at Curtin University, bringing over a decade of experience in software development and system integration. His expertise spans both front-end and back-end development, as well as software project management. Reed's career is characterized by his ability to design and implement solutions for complex problems that require integrating diverse systems.

Brenda Larsen is a respected Noongar language educator and cultural advocate serving as an Associate Lecturer at Curtin University's Centre for Aboriginal Studies. A Balardong yok with ties to Whadjuk boodja, Larsen brings over 20 years of experience as an Aboriginal Indigenous Education Officer to her role. Her passion for language preservation began in 1996 when she undertook an Aboriginal languages intensive course, leading to specialized training in teaching Noongar waangkaniny. Larsen has taught Noongar language at both primary and high school levels, and now contributes significantly to preserving and strengthening Noongar languages at Curtin University. As a senior waangkaniny advisor, she has been instrumental in developing Noongar language resources and recording terms and phrases for educational materials. Larsen's work is crucial in promoting cultural understanding and linguistic preservation, making her a valuable asset in the field of Indigenous studies and language education in Australia.

Dr. Nazanin Mohammadi is a highly accomplished computer network and IT specialist at Curtin University, with over a decade of experience in developing and delivering materials for computer systems and networking laboratories in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering. Her expertise spans a wide range of cutting-edge technologies, including cybersecurity, Internet of Things (IoT), and Software Defined Networking (SDN).

Dr. Eleanor Sandry is a Senior Lecturer in Internet Studies at Curtin University, renowned for her innovative research in communication theory and human-technology interactions. With an interdisciplinary background combining natural sciences from Cambridge University and communication studies from the University of Western Australia, Sandry brings a unique perspective to the field of human-machine communication. Her work, notably explored in her 2015 book "Robots and Communication," focuses on human-robot interactions beyond anthropomorphic designs, examining how effective collaboration can be achieved in various settings. Sandry's research applies communication theories and philosophies of technology to analyze human-technology relations, contributing significantly to understanding the evolving dynamics of human-robot communication. As an educator and researcher, she continues to shape the discourse around digital communication and human-computer interaction, influencing both academic understanding and practical applications of these technologies in everyday life

Dr. King-Sun Chan is a distinguished lecturer in the School of Electrical Engineering, Computing and Mathematical Sciences at Curtin University, bringing extensive expertise in wireless data networks, routing, high-speed router design, medium access control, and data link layer protocols. With a PhD in Information Technology from City University of Hong Kong, Dr. Chan has established himself as a specialist in advanced networking technologies, particularly in the realm of 5G and beyond. His teaching portfolio includes both undergraduate and postgraduate units in networking, with a focus on cutting-edge technologies such as 5G Essentials and 5G Networking. Dr. Chan's research interests and teaching activities position him at the forefront of wireless communication systems development, contributing significantly to the education of future networking professionals and the advancement of telecommunications technology.

Dr. Himanshu Agrawal is a distinguished lecturer at the Cisco-Curtin Centre for Networks in the School of Electrical Engineering, Computing and Mathematical Sciences at Curtin University. With a PhD from RMIT University Australia (2010) and an M.Tech in Computer Science from DAVV, Indore (2003), Dr. Agrawal brings over 25 years of diverse experience in both industry and academia to his role. His expertise spans cutting-edge areas of networking and cybersecurity, including Software-Defined Networking (SDN), Internet of Things (IoT), IoT security, Low Power WAN, and the application of AI to networking and cybersecurity challenges.

Dr. Craig Thompson is a Lecturer at Curtin University, bringing a wealth of experience as an Occupational Therapist specializing in adult mental health. With a diverse clinical background spanning Western Australia and the United Kingdom, Thompson has worked in various settings including adult inpatient and community mental health, general medicine, orthopedic rehabilitation, palliative care, and vocational rehabilitation. His international experience includes working with the National Health Service (NHS) in Edinburgh, where he gained expertise in clinical audits and service redesign. Thompson's leadership skills were further honed as the Acting Occupational Therapy Coordinator at the Alma Street Centre in Fremantle. Holding a Doctor of Philosophy in Occupational Therapy from Curtin University, along with a Master's degree and a Bachelor's in Psychology, Thompson combines academic rigor with practical experience. At Curtin University, he likely contributes to occupational therapy education, focusing on mental health interventions and evidence-based practices, while also engaging in research to advance the field of occupational therapy.

Dr. Viktor Kacic is a prominent child and adolescent psychiatrist in Germany who has made significant contributions to suicide prevention programs for young people. As the Chief Physician at the Clinic for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy at Klinikum Aschaffenburg-Alzenau, Dr. Kacic brings extensive clinical experience to his research and advocacy work

Dr. Kevin Netto is a distinguished Professor of Sports Science at Curtin University, renowned for his innovative research on physical human performance in challenging environments. His work focuses on optimizing movement and skill in both sporting and occupational tasks, emphasizing applied and translational research that extends beyond traditional laboratory settings. Dr. Netto's expertise has earned him multiple research engagement awards at Curtin, and he has significantly contributed to public understanding of health and fitness through a weekly radio show and appearances on national television. As the instructor of "The Science of Fitness" course at Curtin, he combines academic rigor with practical insights, reflecting his commitment to bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world applications. Dr. Netto's research contributions, including work on inertial measurement units for cricket fast bowling and validation of new technologies for sports performance analysis, demonstrate his interdisciplinary approach to sports science. His career exemplifies the integration of cutting-edge research with practical applications and public engagement in the field of human performance optimization.

Dr. Luke Haseler is a Professor in the Curtin School of Allied Health and the Program Lead for Cardiovascular Physiology in the Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute (CHIRI) at Curtin University. His research expertise spans a wide range of physiological studies, from molecular biology of cardioprotective effects of exercise using animal models to advanced imaging techniques for non-invasive assessment of muscle and cardiac processes in humans. Dr. Haseler's work combines fundamental physiological research with cutting-edge technology, including the recent application of machine learning techniques to predict patient survival in intensive care settings. His diverse research background allows him to bridge the gap between basic science and clinical applications. At Curtin University, Dr. Haseler contributes to the education of future health professionals by teaching "The Science of Fitness" course, where he likely integrates his extensive knowledge of cardiovascular physiology and exercise science to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of human performance and health.

Professor Daniel Gucciardi is a distinguished academic in the Curtin School of Allied Health at Curtin University, renowned for his expertise in applied psychology with a focus on high performance, health behaviors, and well-being across sport, education, and workplace contexts. With over 150 peer-reviewed articles and more than 11,000 citations, Gucciardi has established himself as a leading researcher in the fields of stress, resilience, mental toughness, and positive youth development. His pioneering work on mental toughness in sports and studies on resilience in high-performance settings, including military contexts, have significantly contributed to our understanding of psychological factors in challenging environments. As an instructor of "The Science of Fitness" course at Curtin University, Gucciardi brings his interdisciplinary approach to teaching, combining psychology with sports science and organizational behavior. His research focuses on translating findings into practical strategies for enhancing performance and well-being, making his work valuable not only in academic circles but also in real-world applications across various high-performance domains.