Nicola Hancock

Nicola Hancock is an Associate Professor and Academic Director of Research Education (READ) in the School of Health Sciences at the University of Sydney. Her work spans clinical practice, education, and research in mental health, with a focus on recovery-oriented approaches. She leads the mental health team at the Centre for Disability Research and Policy and oversees over 150 higher-degree research students and their supervisors.

Education

• BAppSc(OT)
• PhD

Research Interests Dr. Hancock develops and evaluates recovery-focused interventions, notably the Recovery Assessment Scale–Domains and Stages (RAS-DS), a widely used tool in 25+ countries. Her work emphasizes co-production with lived experience contributors, exploring topics like mental health service models (e.g., NDIS, Recovery College), hopefulness, and consumer participation.

Articles & Grants Her research has secured over $4.5M in grants, including MRFF-funded projects. Recent work includes digital RAS-DS resources and studies on ECT impacts, NDIS access barriers, and rural healthcare worker well-being.

Awards & Recognition While no specific awards are listed, her leadership roles and funding reflect significant professional impact.

Teaching & Advising She teaches mental health in occupational therapy programs and supervises students researching topics like schizophrenia support, ECT outcomes, and NDIS participation.

Labs & Collaborations Collaborates with the Sydney Southeast Asia Centre and industry partners on projects like telehealth adaptation and mental health recovery frameworks.