About me
I specialise in complex ethnographic research and bring over 10 years of experience at the intersection of responsible innovation, design, technology, and human behaviour.
With deep expertise in user studies, design research, and human-centred design, I apply qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-methods research to empower clients in the public, private, and not-for-profit sectors to make strategic, well-informed decisions that drive positive societal impact.
My diverse skill set and project experience span industries such as law enforcement, SaaS, public transportation, community and allied health, higher education, and finance.
I also have hands-on technology experience. As part of my action-oriented PhD, I designed and developed a suite of technology products. These include IoT devices that operated outdoors for several months, user-friendly websites and applications to manage these devices, and systems to collect and analyse study data.
Career
I am an independent research consultant engaged by some of Australia’s most prominent brands and companies. I previously led a team of exceptional research practitioners at Paper Giant.
Before that, I was a Senior Research Fellow at the University of Melbourne and a Digital Media Specialist at Science Gallery Melbourne. In these roles, I led Biometric Mirror, a global research program on AI ethics and managed the concept design and development of the largest media façade in the Southern Hemisphere, The Digital Bricks.
Press and talks
The international press regularly seeks my commentary on digital ethics and AI. Features include an ABC Four Corners special on TikTok and Al Jazeera’s five-part series All Hail the Algorithm.
My press appearances attracted a global audience of 300 million. My work in technology has prompted over 100 invitations to speak at forums and conferences, such as the World Economic Forum, the World Bank, and the World Summit AI. At one point, I appeared on stage at Splendour in the Grass—lucky for you, not as a musician.
Education
I completed a PhD in Engineering Science (KU Leuven), researching the social quality of digital urban media. My action research revolved around community-based, ethnographic field practices.
Before that, I completed an M.Sc. in Architecture (University of Antwerp, summa cum laude), part of which was taken abroad through a long-term study grant, enabling me to explore deeply the intersection of architecture and digital media. This experience was fundamental in my decision to pursue a PhD. I also hold a B.Sc. in computer science (University of Antwerp).
Personal life
My family and I are passionate travellers. We’re particularly intrigued by locations that are off-the-beaten-track and hard-to-access. In recent years, we can most often be found in the Australian Outback.
I combine my passion for travel, which often involves semi-technical 4WD driving, with an interest in landscape photography. I like a complex lens and shutter setup to achieve mesmerising, unexpected outcomes. When not travelling, I’m usually gardening, where I enjoy familiarising myself with the beauty of Australian native and indigenous flora.
