Graduate Research Conference

Empowering futures

MONDAY 25 NOVEMBER - THURSDAY 28 NOVEMBER 2024

Join us for our inaugural graduate research conference - a four-day event designed to empower graduate researchers to confidently plan for their future.

Underpinned by the four domains of Macquarie’s Graduate Researcher Development Framework (GRDF) – Think, Grow, Deliver, Lead - this conference will provide you with the opportunity to develop skills valued in both academic and non-academic careers, and learn about effective strategies for transitioning into your future pathways.

Key themes:

Fresh perspectives: Dive into design thinking and creative visualisation
Careers and self-promotion: Learn about research careers and self-promotion
Research and engagement: Deepen your knowledge of AI and stakeholder collaboration
Impact and leadership: Learn about research careers and self-promotion

REGISTRATIONS NOW OPEN!

PROGRAM

MONDAY 25 NOVEMBER (online)

Time	Session
9.45am – 10.00am	*Welcome to day 1: THINK*
10.00am – 11.30am Register	Creativity as a Driver of Research Excellence Discover how integrating creativity into your research can not only enhance the quality of your work but also increase its relevance and impact on your academic community. Learn techniques to break free from traditional analytical approaches and embrace creative problem-solving to overcome research challenges. Presented by Drs Lars Groger and Lara Moroko from Fisher Folk.
11.30am – 11.45am	Break
11.45am – 1.00pm Register	*Visualising your results – the good, the bad, and the ugly* Visualising data allows us to see the shape of our results making it easier to detect trends, identify correlations and sometimes spot subtle patterns that might otherwise be missed. Visualisations also allow us to communicate our findings more effectively with others, and here in particular it is important that we offer clear and meaningful charts that illuminate and present the data to best effect. In this session we will delve into the wonderful world of visualisation, and how we blend the science of perception and the art of design to create a strong visual narrative. Presented by Dr Nicky Bull.

TUESDAY 26 NOVEMBER (online)

Time	Session
9.45am – 10.00am	*Welcome to day 2: GROW*
10.00am – 11.30am Register	*Get that postdoc!* Come along to this panel discussion and hear valuable insights into the strategies, challenges, and successes our panellists have encountered while transitioning from their studies to postdoctoral positions. There will be two concurrent streams: Science, Technology, Engineering, Math, and Medicine (STEMM) Dr Emre Ilhan (FMHHS) Dr Chris Pastas (FSE) Dr Annika van Hummel (FMHHS) Dr Megan Brewer Humanities and Social Sciences (HASS) Dr Rebecca Bachmann (MQBS) Dr Diana Tan (FoA) Dr Eriselda Danaj (MQBS) Dr Chris Lean (FoA)
11.30am – 11.45am	Break
11.45am – 1.00pm Register	*Shameless Self-Promotion* It's tempting to think that if you are clever and work hard then people will notice and shower you with rewards. Tempting but probably not true. As well as being clever and working hard you also need to be able to promote yourself. In this workshop you will learn strategies for: putting yourself out there, asking for what you want, taking responsibility – not waiting for it to happen, developing your one minute pitch and presenting yourself effectively for promotions, grants, awards. This workshop will look at: asking for what you want why waiting isn’t enough using convincing language- self promotion networking, mentoring and collaborating putting yourself in the spotlight media and other methods to communicate Presented by Hugh Kearns from iThinkWell.

WEDNESDAY 27 NOVEMBER (online)

Time	Session
9.45am – 10.00am	*Welcome to day 3: DELIVER*
10.00am – 11.30am Register	*Generative AI in Research* Generative AI (Artificial Intelligence, Large Language Models) can manipulate and generate text and media in response to arbitrary instructions. These new capabilities offer opportunities and risks to researchers. Come along and hear about the benefits and risks of this evolving technology, and your obligations when using it for your research. Presented by Dr Brian Ballsun-Stanton, Macquarie University
11.30am – 11.45am	Break
11.45am – 1.00pm Register	*Walking the tightrope: communicating research to competing stakeholders* Ever wondered how you can communicate your research in different ways to multiple audiences? Come along to this panel discussion and hear from current students engaged in global PhD and industry programs about delivering their research in different formats to key stakeholders and industries. Presenters: Anindya Susanto (FMHHS) Ícaro de Oliveira Rosa (ARTS) Zixin Feng (MQBS)
1.00pm - 2.00pm Register	Coffee Catch-up (Ubar) Catch-up and meet fellow researchers from across Macquarie over your beverage of choice at the Ubar! Discuss the workshops and panels from the GR Conference, and make new friends. This event is the final GR coffee catch-up for the year, and is part of the Graduate Research Conference 2024.

THURSDAY 28 NOVEMBER (on campus)

Time	Session Register for full day (includes lunch and morning tea)
9.00am – 9.30am	*Registration and arrival coffee* Poster presentations, photo competition, 3MT and VYT reels
9.30am – 9:45am	*Welcome to Day 4: LEAD*
9:45am –11:30am	*Lightning presentations* Presenters: Group 1: Hannah Vogel (ARTS) - The stories we tell: The impact of Archaeology on Disability Activism Takrima Sayeda (MQBS) - Exchange Rate, Geopolitical Risk and Institutional Quality: A Comparative Analysis of Developed and Developing Countries Group 2: Yuxin Zhang (ARTS) - The Long Reach of Spatial Thinking: How Early Skills Shape Math Learning from Childhood to Adolescence Nida Afzal (FMHHS) - From Sensors to Solutions: Addressing Fall Risk in Diverse Care Environments Group 3: Lynda Fallon (FMHHS) - Decision-Making in Endometriosis Management: Two Qualitative Analyses Chloe Duffield (FSE) - Development of a lateral flow assay for molecular subtyping of breast cancer derived small extracellular vesicles for early cancer diagnosis Manjeet Kaur Saggi (FMHHS) - Timing Matters: Assessing the Feasibility of Time-Restricted Eating and Glucose regulation in Shift Workers Group 4: Adnin Tazrih Natasha (FSE) - Integrated Solar-Agriculture Systems: Engineering Solutions for Optimal Energy Yield and Sustainability Xiuping Liao (FSE) - Waste-to-fuel technology for a greener future See presenter bios and abstracts below.
11.30am – 11.45am	Morning tea
11.45am – 1.00pm	*Keynote Speaker: Dr Julie Vonwiller, Appen* Research degrees have a value, but we need to know how to use them. The skills learned can apply in many ways and many fields. This talk will look at one person's experience moving away from academia.
1.00pm – 2.15pm	*Lunch / Networking Session* PLUS poster presentations, photo competition, 3MT and VYT reels
2.15pm – 2.30pm	*Awards & event wrap-up*

PRESENTER INFORMATION

KEYNOTE SPEAKER

DR JULIE VONWILLER
Dr Julie Vonwiller received her PhD in Linguistics from Macquarie University, taking the opportunity to develop a fusion of linguistics and technology to help launch products in new markets around the world. In starting Appen, she gave linguists, who typically work only in academia after receiving their degrees, the opportunity to build their careers in a commercial setting. Julie is a strong advocate of collaboration and using AI.

DR JULIE VONWILLER

Dr Julie Vonwiller received her PhD in Linguistics from Macquarie University, taking the opportunity to develop a fusion of linguistics and technology to help launch products in new markets around the world. In starting Appen, she gave linguists, who typically work only in academia after receiving their degrees, the opportunity to build their careers in a commercial setting. Julie is a strong advocate of collaboration and using AI.

WORKSHOP PRESENTERS

FISHERFOLK
Dr Lars Groeger Lars is an educator, researcher and advisor to industry. He combines his passion for teaching with his expertise design-led innovation, business model innovation, customer engagement and strategic marketing. He is a Senior Lecturer at MQBS and has led the Design Thinking practice in the MBA and Masters programs since 2010. From 2019-2020 Lars was acting Chair and Professor of Innovation Management and Entrepreneurship at the University of Potsdam. He is also an Affiliate Professor at RWTH Aachen University, Germany and a Design Thinking Coach at the HPI School of Design Thinking, Potsdam, Germany.
Dr Lara Moroko Lara is a seasoned professional with 25 years of commercial and academic experience in strategy, innovation and leadership. She has held senior positions driving product innovation, communications, and strategic planning and execution, across for-profit and for-purpose organisations. She is an Adjunct Fellow at FSE and Adjunct Faculty at the Australian Graduate School of Management at UNSW. Lara has been helping researchers and research centres to achieve real world impact since 2015. She uses the Design Thinking toolkit in programs like the MQ Incubator IMPACT program, to create a path from research discovery to engagement and external partnerships.

FISHERFOLK

Dr Lars Groeger
Lars is an educator, researcher and advisor to industry. He combines his passion for teaching with his expertise design-led innovation, business model innovation, customer engagement and strategic marketing.

He is a Senior Lecturer at MQBS and has led the Design Thinking practice in the MBA and Masters programs since 2010. From 2019-2020 Lars was acting Chair and Professor of Innovation Management and Entrepreneurship at the University of Potsdam. He is also an Affiliate Professor at RWTH Aachen University, Germany and a Design Thinking Coach at the HPI School of Design Thinking, Potsdam, Germany.

Dr Lara Moroko
Lara is a seasoned professional with 25 years of commercial and academic experience in strategy, innovation and leadership. She has held senior positions driving product innovation, communications, and strategic planning and execution, across for-profit and for-purpose organisations.
She is an Adjunct Fellow at FSE and Adjunct Faculty at the Australian Graduate School of Management at UNSW.

Lara has been helping researchers and research centres to achieve real world impact since 2015.  She uses the Design Thinking toolkit in programs like the MQ Incubator IMPACT program, to create a path from research discovery to engagement and external partnerships.

BLUE CHAMELEON
Nicky Bull Nicky is a corporate IT trainer and consultant who specialises in data analysis and visualisation utilising Power BI and associated Microsoft technologies. Aside from her work in the corporate world, Nicky delivers Excel training to both Accounting and Governance and graduate researchers at Macquarie University and was the lead designer and trainer for the highly acclaimed Excel Data Analysis and Visualisation course on Coursera.

BLUE CHAMELEON

Nicky Bull

Nicky is a corporate IT trainer and consultant who specialises in data analysis and visualisation utilising Power BI and associated Microsoft technologies.

Aside from her work in the corporate world, Nicky delivers Excel training to both Accounting and Governance and graduate researchers at Macquarie University and was the lead designer and trainer for the highly acclaimed Excel Data Analysis and Visualisation course on Coursera.

THINKWELL
Hugh Kearns Hugh Kearns is recognised internationally as a public speaker, educator and researcher. He regularly lectures at universities across the world including lectures at Oxford, Cambridge, Harvard, Berkeley Stanford, ETH Zurich and the Max Planck Group. His areas of expertise include self-management, positive psychology, work-life balance, and learning and creativity. He has coached individuals, teams and executives in a wide range of organisations in the public and private sectors. Hugh lectures and researches at Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia. He is widely recognised for his ability to take the latest research in psychology and education and apply it to high-performing people and groups. As a co-author with Maria Gardiner, he has published twelve books which are in high demand both in Australia and internationally and has had several articles published in the prestigious journal Nature.

THINKWELL

Hugh Kearns

Hugh Kearns is recognised internationally as a public speaker, educator and researcher. He regularly lectures at universities across the world including lectures at Oxford, Cambridge, Harvard, Berkeley Stanford, ETH Zurich and the Max Planck Group.

His areas of expertise include self-management, positive psychology, work-life balance, and learning and creativity. He has coached individuals, teams and executives in a wide range of organisations in the public and private sectors.

Hugh lectures and researches at Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia. He is widely recognised for his ability to take the latest research in psychology and education and apply it to high-performing people and groups. As a co-author with Maria Gardiner, he has published twelve books which are in high demand both in Australia and internationally and has had several articles published in the prestigious journal Nature.

Macquarie University
Dr Brian Ballsun-Stanton Brian is the Macquarie University Faculty of Arts' Solutions Architect (Digital Humanities). He is a technologist working as a peer with researchers across the faculty and university on digitally enabled research. With a BS and MS in Information Technology and a PhD in the Philosophy of Data -- he is guiding the faculty and university in this crazy new world of "Generative AI." He has given workshops across Europe and Australia about how to think about and use Generative AI tools. He is collaborating with researchers in Philosophy, Law, Security Studies, Languages, and Ancient History around how to use and apply Large Language Models to research problems and undergraduate teaching.

Macquarie University

Dr Brian Ballsun-Stanton

Brian is the Macquarie University Faculty of Arts' Solutions Architect (Digital Humanities). He is a technologist working as a peer with researchers across the faculty and university on digitally enabled research. With a BS and MS in Information Technology and a PhD in the Philosophy of Data -- he is guiding the faculty and university in this crazy new world of "Generative AI." He has given workshops across Europe and Australia about how to think about and use Generative AI tools. He is collaborating with researchers in Philosophy, Law, Security Studies, Languages, and Ancient History around how to use and apply Large Language Models to research problems and undergraduate teaching.

POSTDOC PRESENTERS

Dr Christopher Pastras School of Engineering
Dr. Christopher Pastras earned his PhD from the University of Sydney and has since been awarded three consecutive competitive fellowships, including a University of Sydney Foundation Fellowship and a Garnett Passe and Rodney Williams Memorial Foundation Fellowship. In 2022, he became a Macquarie University Research Fellow in the School of Engineering and serves as the Early Career Researcher Representative for the Faculty of Science and Engineering. His interdisciplinary research focuses on developing engineering tools and technologies for hearing and balance systems, featuring several industry collaborations. He has published over 35 papers and secured $3.9 million in competitive funding, including $1.9 million as the primary chief investigator, from bodies like the NHMRC and Cochlear. Dr. Pastras currently supervises three PhD, two MRes, and two thesis students in the School of Engineering. With over seven years of teaching experience, he is passionate about inspiring and engaging students in engineering education, emphasizing industry relevance and employability.

Dr Christopher Pastras
School of Engineering

Dr. Christopher Pastras earned his PhD from the University of Sydney and has since been awarded three consecutive competitive fellowships, including a University of Sydney Foundation Fellowship and a Garnett Passe and Rodney Williams Memorial Foundation Fellowship. In 2022, he became a Macquarie University Research Fellow in the School of Engineering and serves as the Early Career Researcher Representative for the Faculty of Science and Engineering. His interdisciplinary research focuses on developing engineering tools and technologies for hearing and balance systems, featuring several industry collaborations. He has published over 35 papers and secured $3.9 million in competitive funding, including $1.9 million as the primary chief investigator, from bodies like the NHMRC and Cochlear. Dr. Pastras currently supervises three PhD, two MRes, and two thesis students in the School of Engineering. With over seven years of teaching experience, he is passionate about inspiring and engaging students in engineering education, emphasizing industry relevance and employability.

Dr Emre Ilhan Department of Health Sciences
Dr Emre Ilhan (he/him) is a lecturer in the Department of Health Sciences, and a physiotherapist in the Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District. His areas of research are pain across the lifespan with a focus on paediatric pain, rehabilitation, and promoting inclusivity and equity in healthcare.

Dr Annika van Hummel Macquarie Medical School
Dr Annika van Hummel is a Research Fellow in the Dementia Research Centre at Macquarie University. She graduated with a PhD in osteoarthritis research in 2014 from the University of Sydney, before jumping into the field of Neuroscience for her postdoc. Her research focuses on developing tools to uncover the cellular processes underlying neurodegenerative diseases and test novel treatments.

Dr Samantha Spanos Australian Institute of Health Innovation
Dr Samantha Spanos is a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the Australian Institute of Health Innovation focusing on health systems and services improvement. Her research involves working with healthcare professionals to investigate complex problems in healthcare settings and develop strategies that improve care quality and safety. With a background in psychology, Sam has a special interest in mental health care services and improving access to psychosocial support in general practice settings. Sam is actively involved in ECR advocacy at the department, faculty, and university level, through committee leadership aimed at advancing initiatives that support and empower ECRs.

Dr Samantha Spanos
Australian Institute of Health Innovation

Dr Samantha Spanos is a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the Australian Institute of Health Innovation focusing on health systems and services improvement. Her research involves working with healthcare professionals to investigate complex problems in healthcare settings and develop strategies that improve care quality and safety. With a background in psychology, Sam has a special interest in mental health care services and improving access to psychosocial support in general practice settings. Sam is actively involved in ECR advocacy at the department, faculty, and university level, through committee leadership aimed at advancing initiatives that support and empower ECRs.

Dr Christopher Lean Department of Philosophy
Christopher Lean is a Research Fellow within the Department of Philosophy at Macquarie University, working with the ARC Centre of Excellence in Synthetic Biology under Distinguished Prof. Wendy Rogers. Current research includes considering the role of biotechnology in conservation science and on invasive species. He has previously worked at the University of Sydney and Dalhousie University on issues including ecosystem evolution, laws of nature in ecology, de-extinction, and ethics of online genetic genealogies. His primary research areas are philosophy of the life sciences (biology, ecology, medicine) and ethics (bioethics, environment, technology). His research has been featured in the New York Times, awarded the Australian Association of Philosophy Media Prize, and helped create a biotechnology start-up.

Dr Christopher Lean
Department of Philosophy

Christopher Lean is a Research Fellow within the Department of Philosophy at Macquarie University, working with the ARC Centre of Excellence in Synthetic Biology under Distinguished Prof. Wendy Rogers. Current research includes considering the role of biotechnology in conservation science and on invasive species. He has previously worked at the University of Sydney and Dalhousie University on issues including ecosystem evolution, laws of nature in ecology, de-extinction, and ethics of online genetic genealogies. His primary research areas are philosophy of the life sciences (biology, ecology, medicine) and ethics (bioethics, environment, technology). His research has been featured in the New York Times, awarded the Australian Association of Philosophy Media Prize, and helped create a biotechnology start-up.

Dr Eriselda Danaj Macquarie Business School
Eriselda Danaj is an ethicist interested in the dark side of organizational phenomena, and an experimentalist turned ethnographer. My PhD focused on examining individuals' well-being and (un)ethical behaviors through a tensions lens. In my current work as a Research Fellow at MQBS, I am conducting a longitudinal study of individuals' experience of tensions in multilateral climate negotiations. I do research because it makes me happy and I hope that ultimately my research will help design workplaces that promote wellbeing. Fun fact: I have studied and lived in eight countries across 3 continents in the last 12 years.

Dr Eriselda Danaj
Macquarie Business School

Eriselda Danaj is an ethicist interested in the dark side of organizational phenomena, and an experimentalist turned ethnographer. My PhD focused on examining individuals' well-being and (un)ethical behaviors through a tensions lens. In my current work as a Research Fellow at MQBS, I am conducting a longitudinal study of individuals' experience of tensions in multilateral climate negotiations. I do research because it makes me happy and I hope that ultimately my research will help design workplaces that promote wellbeing. Fun fact: I have studied and lived in eight countries across 3 continents in the last 12 years.

Dr Rebecca Bachmann Department of Accounting and Corporate Governance
Rebecca is a Lecturer in Accounting and the Deputy Course Director (Bachelor of Commerce) at Macquarie University. Recognised as a 2024 Highly Commended Finalist for the Vice-Chancellor’s Teaching and Learning Award (Student-Nominated Category), she is passionate about making students’ university experience engaging and accessible. Rebecca specialises in auditing and financial accounting, and seeks to contribute to advancing education through innovative teaching methods drawing from her extensive teaching experience and accolades, including a 2021 Teaching and Learning Citation from the University of Technology Sydney. With a PhD in Accounting and a strong research portfolio, Rebecca’s work focuses on corporate governance, executive compensation, and CSR disclosures, featured in leading journals such as the Journal of Management Accounting Research. Her research has gained wide media coverage, including outlets like The Guardian and ABC Radio National. She has also secured multiple competitive research grants, including a recent tender awarded by the Australian Accounting Standards Board, highlighting her expertise and the practical impact of her research in shaping accounting practices.

Dr Rebecca Bachmann
Department of Accounting and Corporate Governance

Rebecca is a Lecturer in Accounting and the Deputy Course Director (Bachelor of Commerce) at Macquarie University. Recognised as a 2024 Highly Commended Finalist for the Vice-Chancellor’s Teaching and Learning Award (Student-Nominated Category), she is passionate about making students’ university experience engaging and accessible. Rebecca specialises in auditing and financial accounting, and seeks to contribute to advancing education through innovative teaching methods drawing from her extensive teaching experience and accolades, including a 2021 Teaching and Learning Citation from the University of Technology Sydney.

With a PhD in Accounting and a strong research portfolio, Rebecca’s work focuses on corporate governance, executive compensation, and CSR disclosures, featured in leading journals such as the Journal of Management Accounting Research. Her research has gained wide media coverage, including outlets like The Guardian and ABC Radio National. She has also secured multiple competitive research grants, including a recent tender awarded by the Australian Accounting Standards Board, highlighting her expertise and the practical impact of her research in shaping accounting practices.

Dr Diana Tan Macquarie School of Education
Diana obtained her PhD in Psychology from the University of Western Australia in 2018 and has been working as an autism researcher for over 10 years. In 2022, she was awarded a Macquarie University Research Fellowship to understand Autistic people’s experiences of university in Australia, particularly their lived experiences of stigma and discrimination. She has recently been awarded an ARC Discovery Early Career Research Award to understand how Autistic and otherwise neurodivergent students conceptualise university belonging, and how universities can foster an enabling environment for this marginalised student population. Diana is also passionate about improving our research practices through increasing engagement – and sharing decision-making power – with neurodivergent people as active collaborators in all aspects of the research process.

Dr Diana Tan
Macquarie School of Education

Diana obtained her PhD in Psychology from the University of Western Australia in 2018 and has been working as an autism researcher for over 10 years. In 2022, she was awarded a Macquarie University Research Fellowship to understand Autistic people’s experiences of university in Australia, particularly their lived experiences of stigma and discrimination. She has recently been awarded an ARC Discovery Early Career Research Award to understand how Autistic and otherwise neurodivergent students conceptualise university belonging, and how universities can foster an enabling environment for this marginalised student population. Diana is also passionate about improving our research practices through increasing engagement – and sharing decision-making power – with neurodivergent people as active collaborators in all aspects of the research process.

WALKING THE TIGHTROPE PRESENTERS

Anindya Susanto Australian Institute of Health Innovation
Anindya P Susanto, or also known as Nino, has both a Medical Doctor background from Universitas Indonesia and a Bioengineering degree from Nanyang Technological University Singapore. He also holds a master degree in Management from Universitas Indonesia. He is currently pursuing PhD degree in Health Innovation at Macquarie University. He has an interest in applying medical technology in clinical practice.

Anindya Susanto
Australian Institute of Health Innovation

Anindya P Susanto, or also known as Nino, has both a Medical Doctor background from Universitas Indonesia and a Bioengineering degree from Nanyang Technological University Singapore. He also holds a master degree in Management from Universitas Indonesia. He is currently pursuing PhD degree in Health Innovation at Macquarie University. He has an interest in applying medical technology in clinical practice.

Ícaro de Oliveira Rosa Macquarie School of Education
Ícaro is a current doctoral candidate and he holds degrees in International Relations (BA, Hons, MA, and MRes). Based upon professional experience of over 5 years in the higher education sector, his current research examines the experiences of undergraduate and postgraduate students in an exchange program in Australia. Read Icaro’s story of his internship with a medical tech company through the iPREP Biodesign program.

Ícaro de Oliveira Rosa
Macquarie School of Education

Ícaro is a current doctoral candidate and he holds degrees in International Relations (BA, Hons, MA, and MRes). Based upon professional experience of over 5 years in the higher education sector, his current research examines the experiences of undergraduate and postgraduate students in an exchange program in Australia. Read Icaro’s story of his internship with a medical tech company through the iPREP Biodesign program.

Zixin Feng Department of Actuarial Studies and Business Analytics
Zixin is currently a Cotutelle PhD student in Actuarial Studies at Macquarie Business School (MQBS) and in Probability Theory at Wuhan University. He holds a Master’s degree in Statistics from the China University of Mining and Technology. His research interests include financial mathematics, particularly recursive utilities with a working paper on ArXiv (preprint at https://doi.org/10.48550/arXiv.2407.19995). Zixin is currently working on risk models for blockchain and cryptocurrencies.

Zixin Feng
Department of Actuarial Studies and Business Analytics

Zixin is currently a Cotutelle PhD student in Actuarial Studies at Macquarie Business School (MQBS) and in Probability Theory at Wuhan University. He holds a Master’s degree in Statistics from the China University of Mining and Technology. His research interests include financial mathematics, particularly recursive utilities with a working paper on ArXiv (preprint at https://doi.org/10.48550/arXiv.2407.19995). Zixin is currently working on risk models for blockchain and cryptocurrencies.

LIGHTNING PRESENTERS

Hannah Vogel Department of History and Archaeology
Hannah Vogel is a PhD student in the Department of History and Archaeology at Macquarie University. She is an archaeologist researching ableism and disability in the ancient world and the disciplines of history and archaeology. Hannah’s work seeks interdisciplinary communication between humanities and sciences her research interests include critical disability studies, bioarchaeology, and Egyptology. She is an advocate for accessibility and has worked in museums, public outreach, and inclusive pedagogies. Hannah is also centre manager of the Centre for Ancient Cultural Heritage and Environment (CACHE) and a member of the Macquarie Theban Tombs Project in Luxor, Egypt.

Hannah Vogel
Department of History and Archaeology

Hannah Vogel is a PhD student in the Department of History and Archaeology at Macquarie University. She is an archaeologist researching ableism and disability in the ancient world and the disciplines of history and archaeology. Hannah’s work seeks interdisciplinary communication between humanities and sciences her research interests include critical disability studies, bioarchaeology, and Egyptology. She is an advocate for accessibility and has worked in museums, public outreach, and inclusive pedagogies. Hannah is also centre manager of the Centre for Ancient Cultural Heritage and Environment (CACHE) and a member of the Macquarie Theban Tombs Project in Luxor, Egypt.

Lynda Fallon School of Psychological Sciences
Lynda Fallon is passionate about empowering individuals to take an active role in shared decision-making in healthcare. Currently pursuing her PhD in the School of Psychological Sciences at Macquarie University, her research builds on her Honours thesis, which explored decision-making challenges in endometriosis symptom management. Lynda is currently part of a multidisciplinary team led by Professor Kerry Sherman developing a patient decision aid, designed to support informed treatment decision-making and reduce psychological stress for those with endometriosis. She has published her work in Health Psychology and Behavioral Medicine, contributing to the growing research on patient-centred care.

Lynda Fallon
School of Psychological Sciences

Lynda Fallon is passionate about empowering individuals to take an active role in shared decision-making in healthcare. Currently pursuing her PhD in the School of Psychological Sciences at Macquarie University, her research builds on her Honours thesis, which explored decision-making challenges in endometriosis symptom management. Lynda is currently part of a multidisciplinary team led by Professor Kerry Sherman developing a patient decision aid, designed to support informed treatment decision-making and reduce psychological stress for those with endometriosis. She has published her work in Health Psychology and Behavioral Medicine, contributing to the growing research on patient-centred care.

Chloe Duffield School of Natural Sciences

Takrima Sayeda Economics

Nida Afzal Australian Institute of Health Innovation

Manjeet Kaur Saggi Department of Health Sciences

Manjeet Saggi is a PhD student at Macquarie University, focusing on the impact of shift work on eating behaviors among nurses. Her research explores time-restricted eating as a potential strategy to improve glucose regulation and overall health in shift workers. Manjeet is also a sessional academic at UTS and an advocate for evidence-based health practices in clinical settings. With a background in nursing, she brings a practical perspective to her research, aiming to improve both health outcomes and workplace wellness.

Xiuping Liao School of Engineering
Xiuping Liao is a PhD student at School of Engineering, specializing in sustainable, low-emission energy solutions. Her research centres on converting diverse waste materials to high-quality gaseous fuels, particularly hydrogen. She’s also working on ways to minimize CO₂ emissions during the conversion process. She is passionate about to translating her research into practical applications, paving the way for a greener future.

Xiuping Liao
School of Engineering

Xiuping Liao is a PhD student at School of Engineering, specializing in sustainable, low-emission energy solutions. Her research centres on converting diverse waste materials to high-quality gaseous fuels, particularly hydrogen. She’s also working on ways to minimize CO₂ emissions during the conversion process. She is passionate about to translating her research into practical applications, paving the way for a greener future.

Yuxin Zhang Macquarie School of Education
Yuxin Zhang is a PhD student at the Macquarie School of Education. Yuxin is passionate about understanding children’s development of mathematical cognition. She is interested in using multiple research methods (e.g., experimental, longitudinal, meta-analysis, secondary analysis, etc.) to study the relationship between cognitive factors (e.g., working memory and spatial reasoning) and mathematics learning throughout childhood and adolescence. Yuxin's research aims to advance the understanding of the development of math learning and cognition and provide evidence-based tips to aid in math class instructions and intervention programmes, and help students who struggle with math to establish a positive relationship with math.

Yuxin Zhang
Macquarie School of Education

Yuxin Zhang is a PhD student at the Macquarie School of Education. Yuxin is passionate about understanding children’s development of mathematical cognition. She is interested in using multiple research methods (e.g., experimental, longitudinal, meta-analysis, secondary analysis, etc.) to study the relationship between cognitive factors (e.g., working memory and spatial reasoning) and mathematics learning throughout childhood and adolescence. Yuxin's research aims to advance the understanding of the development of math learning and cognition and provide evidence-based tips to aid in math class instructions and intervention programmes, and help students who struggle with math to establish a positive relationship with math.

Adnin Tazrih Natasha School of Engineering

LIGHTNING PRESENTATIONS

Adnin Tazrih Natasha School of Engineering
Integrated Solar-Agriculture Systems: Engineering Solutions for Optimal Energy Yield and Sustainability Agrivoltaics, the integration of agriculture and photovoltaic (PV) systems, represents a transformative leap in sustainable energy and farming. This research develops energy portfolio metrics, optimizing energy yield, reducing losses, and improving the efficiency and sustainability of solar-agriculture systems. The study offers best engineering practices for solar farms by optimizing PV panel orientation, structure, technology, and integrating the Light Productivity Factor (LPF) to balance energy yield with crop cultivation, vital for powering farms and addressing market, environmental, and technological barriers. The research outcomes and metrics will be validated by real solar farm output in north NSW.

Adnin Tazrih Natasha
School of Engineering

Integrated Solar-Agriculture Systems: Engineering Solutions for Optimal Energy Yield and Sustainability

Agrivoltaics, the integration of agriculture and photovoltaic (PV) systems, represents a transformative leap in sustainable energy and farming. This research develops energy portfolio metrics, optimizing energy yield, reducing losses, and improving the efficiency and sustainability of solar-agriculture systems. The study offers best engineering practices for solar farms by optimizing PV panel orientation, structure, technology, and integrating the Light Productivity Factor (LPF) to balance energy yield with crop cultivation, vital for powering farms and addressing market, environmental, and technological barriers. The research outcomes and metrics will be validated by real solar farm output in north NSW.

Chloe Duffield School of Natural Sciences
Development of a lateral flow assay for molecular subtyping of breast cancer derived small extracellular vesicles for early cancer diagnosis With cancer rates predicted to increase 77% by 2050, the need for early detection is paramount. Small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) are a novel biomarker that play a vital role in intercellular communication within tumour microenvironments. A SERS-based lateral flow assay is thus proposed to detect and subtype sEV populations based on common sEV surface biomolecules (CD9, CD81 and CD63) in a manner that is rapid, sensitive and specific for practical clinical use. Preliminary results show specific capture of cancer biomarkers on sEVs and subtyped sEV populations from cell lines and patient samples, thus, allowing for improvements in precision oncology.

Chloe Duffield
School of Natural Sciences

Development of a lateral flow assay for molecular subtyping of breast cancer derived small extracellular vesicles for early cancer diagnosis

With cancer rates predicted to increase 77% by 2050, the need for early detection is paramount. Small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) are a novel biomarker that play a vital role in intercellular communication within tumour microenvironments. A SERS-based lateral flow assay is thus proposed to detect and subtype sEV populations based on common sEV surface biomolecules (CD9, CD81 and CD63) in a manner that is rapid, sensitive and specific for practical clinical use. Preliminary results show specific capture of cancer biomarkers on sEVs and subtyped sEV populations from cell lines and patient samples, thus, allowing for improvements in precision oncology.

Hannah Vogel Department of History and Archaeology
The stories we tell: The impact of Archaeology on Disability Activism Hannah Vogel is a PhD student in the Department of History and Archaeology at Macquarie University. She is an archaeologist researching ableism and disability in the ancient world and the disciplines of history and archaeology. Hannah’s work seeks interdisciplinary communication between humanities and sciences her research interests include critical disability studies, bioarchaeology, and Egyptology. She is an advocate for accessibility and has worked in museums, public outreach, and inclusive pedagogies. Hannah is also centre manager of the Centre for Ancient Cultural Heritage and Environment (CACHE) and a member of the Macquarie Theban Tombs Project in Luxor, Egypt.

Hannah Vogel
Department of History and Archaeology

The stories we tell: The impact of Archaeology on Disability Activism

Hannah Vogel is a PhD student in the Department of History and Archaeology at Macquarie University. She is an archaeologist researching ableism and disability in the ancient world and the disciplines of history and archaeology. Hannah’s work seeks interdisciplinary communication between humanities and sciences her research interests include critical disability studies, bioarchaeology, and Egyptology. She is an advocate for accessibility and has worked in museums, public outreach, and inclusive pedagogies. Hannah is also centre manager of the Centre for Ancient Cultural Heritage and Environment (CACHE) and a member of the Macquarie Theban Tombs Project in Luxor, Egypt.

Lynda Fallon School of Psychological Sciences
Decision-Making in Endometriosis Management: Two Qualitative Analyses Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory disease with often-debilitating symptoms. It has no cure, and research reports widespread dissatisfaction among people living with endometriosis (PLWE) about treatment management. These qualitative studies canvassed for the first time the perspectives of patients (N = 41) and healthcare professionals (HPs; N = 13) about PLWE decision-making. Data were thematically analysed using the template approach. Decision-making challenges identified included: accessing valid and trustworthy information about endometriosis and its treatments; the need for PLWE to self-advocate; and maintaining psychological health. The results will help to inform the development of an online decision-making support tool for PLWE.

Lynda Fallon
School of Psychological Sciences

Decision-Making in Endometriosis Management: Two Qualitative Analyses

Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory disease with often-debilitating symptoms. It has no cure, and research reports widespread dissatisfaction among people living with endometriosis (PLWE) about treatment management. These qualitative studies canvassed for the first time the perspectives of patients (N = 41) and healthcare professionals (HPs; N = 13) about PLWE decision-making. Data were thematically analysed using the template approach. Decision-making challenges identified included: accessing valid and trustworthy information about endometriosis and its treatments; the need for PLWE to self-advocate; and maintaining psychological health. The results will help to inform the development of an online decision-making support tool for PLWE.

Manjeet Kaur Saggi Department of Health Sciences
Timing Matters: Assessing the Feasibility of Time-Restricted Eating and Glucose regulation in Shift Workers Shift workers have higher risk for metabolic conditions, yet there are minimal interventions to mitigate this risk. So, we devised this study that aims to evaluate the feasibility and impact of time-restricted eating (TRE) on glucose regulation in shift workers. Thirty participants will be randomized into intervention group with 7-hour of overnight fasting or control group with unrestricted eating. Continuous glucose monitors will assess glucose levels over two weeks. We hypothesize that the TRE is feasible with shift work and improves glucose regulation. This study can provide a practical strategy to mitigate adverse metabolic effects associated with shift work.

Manjeet Kaur Saggi
Department of Health Sciences

Timing Matters: Assessing the Feasibility of Time-Restricted Eating and Glucose regulation in Shift Workers

Shift workers have higher risk for metabolic conditions, yet there are minimal interventions to mitigate this risk. So, we devised this study that aims to evaluate the feasibility and impact of time-restricted eating (TRE) on glucose regulation in shift workers. Thirty participants will be randomized into intervention group with 7-hour of overnight fasting or control group with unrestricted eating. Continuous glucose monitors will assess glucose levels over two weeks. We hypothesize that the TRE is feasible with shift work and improves glucose regulation. This study can provide a practical strategy to mitigate adverse metabolic effects associated with shift work.

Nida Afzal Centre for Health Informatics, Australian Institute of Health Innovation
From Sensors to Solutions: Addressing Fall Risk in Diverse Care Environments Falls among older adults are a global and Australian concern. This study analysed temporospatial (time and location within home) fall alert patterns detected by ambient sensors in three Australian care settings—Residential Aged Care Facilities (RACFs), Retirement Villages (RVs), and Home Dwelling Communities (HDCs). Distinct patterns emerged: RACFs had frequent nighttime alerts in bedrooms, RVs showed even distribution throughout the day, influenced by mobility and social activities, and HDCs had the lowest fall rates, supported by strong family networks. The findings suggest the need for tailored fall prevention strategies, including nighttime interventions, mobility programs, and home modifications across these settings..

Nida Afzal
Centre for Health Informatics, Australian Institute of Health Innovation

From Sensors to Solutions: Addressing Fall Risk in Diverse Care Environments

Falls among older adults are a global and Australian concern. This study analysed temporospatial (time and location within home) fall alert patterns detected by ambient sensors in three Australian care settings—Residential Aged Care Facilities (RACFs), Retirement Villages (RVs), and Home Dwelling Communities (HDCs). Distinct patterns emerged: RACFs had frequent nighttime alerts in bedrooms, RVs showed even distribution throughout the day, influenced by mobility and social activities, and HDCs had the lowest fall rates, supported by strong family networks. The findings suggest the need for tailored fall prevention strategies, including nighttime interventions, mobility programs, and home modifications across these settings..

Takrima Sayeda Economics
Exchange Rate, Geopolitical Risk and Institutional Quality: A Comparative Analysis of Developed and Developing Countries This paper explores the relationship between geopolitical risks, institutional frameworks, and real exchange rates. Our analysis reveals that global and country-specific geopolitical risks are associated with real depreciation, while a strong institutional framework is positively associated with real appreciation. We also find that a robust institutional framework can partially offset the weakening of domestic currencies, particularly in developing countries. Additionally, panel VECM analysis reveals reverse causality, where real depreciation can exacerbate geopolitical risks. Since geopolitical risks and the institutional framework are significant predictors of real exchange rates, policymakers can address them to avoid possible economic crises.

Takrima Sayeda
Economics

Exchange Rate, Geopolitical Risk and Institutional Quality: A Comparative Analysis of Developed and Developing Countries

This paper explores the relationship between geopolitical risks, institutional frameworks, and real exchange rates. Our analysis reveals that global and country-specific geopolitical risks are associated with real depreciation, while a strong institutional framework is positively associated with real appreciation. We also find that a robust institutional framework can partially offset the weakening of domestic currencies, particularly in developing countries. Additionally, panel VECM analysis reveals reverse causality, where real depreciation can exacerbate geopolitical risks. Since geopolitical risks and the institutional framework are significant predictors of real exchange rates, policymakers can address them to avoid possible economic crises.

Xiuping Liao School of Engineering
Waste-to-fuel technology for a greener future The dominance of fossil fuels in our energy system is a primary contributor to global warming, necessitating the urgent development of clean alternative fuels production with low emissions. My PhD project focuses on the production of gaseous fuels from various waste materials. A novel approach has been developed to generate high-quality hydrogen (H2), the cleanest and most energy-dense fuel, without consuming additional freshwater like in conventional approaches. Moreover, this process facilitates negative emissions by effectively converting CO2 into non-greenhouse gases that can be utilized directly as fuel or as valuable chemical feedstocks. This waste-to-fuel technology not only offers a prospective pathway for energy transition but also addresses significant waste management challenges.

Xiuping Liao
School of Engineering

Waste-to-fuel technology for a greener future

The dominance of fossil fuels in our energy system is a primary contributor to global warming, necessitating the urgent development of clean alternative fuels production with low emissions. My PhD project focuses on the production of gaseous fuels from various waste materials. A novel approach has been developed to generate high-quality hydrogen (H2), the cleanest and most energy-dense fuel, without consuming additional freshwater like in conventional approaches. Moreover, this process facilitates negative emissions by effectively converting CO2 into non-greenhouse gases that can be utilized directly as fuel or as valuable chemical feedstocks. This waste-to-fuel technology not only offers a prospective pathway for energy transition but also addresses significant waste management challenges.

Yuxin Zhang Macquarie School of Education
The Long Reach of Spatial Thinking: How Early Skills Shape Math Learning from Childhood to Adolescence Mathematics is essential for both personal growth and societal progress, yet Australia faces a troubling decline in student engagement and performance. This research examines how spatial thinking—an integral component of intelligence—contributes to math achievement. Analyses of a large-scale longitudinal dataset show that early spatial activities, building blocks and spatial working memory, explain 33.6% of math skills at age 17. Building blocks at ages 5-7 significantly impact later math performance. Incorporating spatial thinking into the math curriculum offers transformative potential to enhance math outcomes. Students’ enjoyment of spatial activities may foster more positive attitudes and proactive engagement with math.

Yuxin Zhang
Macquarie School of Education

The Long Reach of Spatial Thinking: How Early Skills Shape Math Learning from Childhood to Adolescence

Mathematics is essential for both personal growth and societal progress, yet Australia faces a troubling decline in student engagement and performance. This research examines how spatial thinking—an integral component of intelligence—contributes to math achievement. Analyses of a large-scale longitudinal dataset show that early spatial activities, building blocks and spatial working memory, explain 33.6% of math skills at age 17. Building blocks at ages 5-7 significantly impact later math performance. Incorporating spatial thinking into the math curriculum offers transformative potential to enhance math outcomes. Students’ enjoyment of spatial activities may foster more positive attitudes and proactive engagement with math.

INFORMATION FOR PRESENTERS

Highlight the transformative impact of your research!

Do you have research with a significant impact? Here's your chance to showcase it!

Submit your abstract and seize the opportunity to highlight the transformative impact of your research in just five minutes. Impress our judges and captivate the audience for a chance to win prizes!

Theme: "What is the transformative impact of your research?"
Presentation date: Thursday, 28 November 2024
Presentation requirements: 5 minutes long, no more than four (4) powerpoint slides

Prizes

First place: $300.00
Second place: $200.00
People's Choice: $100.00

PLUS

All winners will be provided with the opportunity to promote their research in the MQ Lighthouse for media exposure.

Submission guidelines

To apply, submit an abstract for your research paper that is relevant to the theme. Please read the Presentation Guidelines before submitting your application.

Application form
Abstract deadline: Friday 13 September 2024
Notification of acceptance: Friday 20 September 2024

Apply now and make your impact known!

Showcase your research impact!

Do you have research that makes a difference? Macquarie's research community would love to see it!

Submit your abstract and design an eye-catching poster that highlights the powerful impact of your research. Impress our judges and win over the audience to claim prizes!

Theme: "Showcase your research"
Presentation date: Thursday 28 November 2024
Poster size: Between A3 to A0

Prizes

First place: $300.00
Second place: $200.00
People's Choice: $100.00

Submission guidelines

To apply, submit an abstract for your research poster that is relevant to the theme. Already presented a poster about your research this year? Great news - you can reuse it for this conference! Please read the Presentation Guidelines before submitting your application.

Application form
Abstract deadline: Friday 13 September 2024
Notification of acceptance: Friday 20 September 2024

Submit now and promote your research!

A day in the life of a researcher!

Do you have a compelling story to tell about the daily life of a researcher? Here's your chance to showcase it!

Submit your photo and capture the essence of your research journey. Highlight the transformative moments and everyday experiences that define your work. Impress our judges and captivate the audience for a chance to win prizes!

Theme: “A day in the life of a researcher”
Presentation date: Thursday 28 November 2024
Creative brief: Capture any aspect of living the “life of a graduate researcher” within a single image (i.e., no composite or panelled images).

Prizes

First place: $300.00
Second place: $200.00
People's Choice: $100.00

Submission guidelines

To apply, submit your photo with one sentence outlining how your photo relates to the theme. Please read the competition Terms and Conditions before submitting your application.

Application Form
Submission deadline: ~~Friday 1 November 2024~~ Extended to Friday 15 November!
Winners will be announced at the conference on Thursday 28 November 2024

Apply now and let your story be seen!

Presenting at this conference - or another - soon? Want to improve your public speaking for future presentations? Join the GR Development team in upgrading your conference skills.

This 2-hour workshop covers several less-obvious but essential skills for participating fully in academic conferences. From presenting posters and lightning presentations to chairing sessions and networking with a cup of coffee and pastry in your hands, you’ll not only hear some great advice but get to practise with real props!

Friday 18 Oct , 10am to 12pm

This year’s GR Conference presenters and sessions chairs should definitely register, but any graduate researcher who plans to attend, present at, or apply for a conference is welcome.

This conference is proudly supported by: