Annette Dowd

Dr. Annette Dowd is a Senior Lecturer at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS), School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences. She holds roles as Associate Head of School (Education and Students) since 2022 and previously served as Program Director for Biomedical Physics Programs (2019–2022). Her research focuses on physics education innovation and advanced materials characterization, combining synchrotron techniques with nanostructured materials analysis. She earned her BSc(Hons) in Medical Physics from UNSW and PhD in Physical Sciences from ANU, followed by postdoctoral work at the University of Cambridge.

Education:

• BSc(Hons) in Medical Physics, University of New South Wales
• PhD in Physical Sciences, Australian National University

Research Interests:

• Active learning strategies in physics education
• Optical and structural characterization of nanostructured materials
• Synchrotron-based techniques (X-ray, terahertz spectroscopy)
• Biomaterials and coral biominerals
• Energy storage materials and plasmonic systems

Recent Article Trends:

• Focus on coral resilience and biomaterial applications
• Development of nanoporous metal sponges for catalysis and energy storage
• Phase transitions and molecular dynamics in biological systems
• Integration of synchrotron techniques for material analysis

Grants & Collaborations:

• Lead investigator on multiple Australian Synchrotron grants (2014–2025)
• UTS-funded education grants for lab innovation and student mentorship
• Collaborations on biomaterials, energy systems, and nano-optics

Teaching & Leadership:

• Subject coordinator for Physical Modelling and Physics 2
• Designed virtual reality labs and industry mentoring programs
• Advocates for pedagogical innovation and student career identity