About
Natali Pearson is a Senior Lecturer in Heritage Studies within the Discipline of Archaeology at the University of Sydney's School of Humanities. She holds adjunct status at Flinders University and is a DECRA Fellow (2025-2027). Her research focuses on maritime heritage in Southeast Asia, particularly sunken warships and underwater cultural heritage governance. Pearson's work bridges archaeology, law, and diplomacy, addressing ethical challenges in heritage preservation.
Education: PhD Museum Studies (University of Sydney, 2019), M.Museums (2013), MA Strategy & Policy (UNSW, 2006), BA Asian Studies (UNSW, 2002). Professional experience includes roles at the Asia Society, Australian government defense/anti-money laundering sectors, and leadership in organizations like the Australasian Institute for Maritime Archaeology and Indonesia Council.
Research emphasizes heritage diplomacy, with projects on WWII naval wrecks (e.g., HMAS Perth), illicit trafficking prevention, and shared histories through maritime collections. Recent grants include $486K DECRA funding for sunken warship diplomacy research and ASEAN-Australia Council grants. Active in media/podcasts (e.g., New Books in Southeast Asian Studies, SSEAC Stories) and editorial roles (The Great Circle journal).
- Leadership: President of Indonesia Council, Councillor (AIMA), ICOMOS Expert Member
- Teaching: Coordinates MHST6901/6903 units in Museum & Heritage Studies
- Fieldwork: Directed interdisciplinary New Colombo Plan programs in Timor-Leste, Cambodia, Indonesia, and Thailand