Ray Laurence

Ray Laurence is a Professor of Ancient History at Macquarie University's School of Humanities, joining in 2017 after holding positions at the University of Kent, UK. His research focuses on Roman urban life, mobility, and perceptions of age in antiquity. He leads projects like 'Roads to the Past' and 'XVviri: The Interpreters of the Sibyl,' exploring Roman infrastructure and cultural practices. Laurence is also founder of Ancient Rome in Motion, a start-up producing educational films with over 20 million YouTube views, used globally in schools and universities.

Key research interests include Roman urban space, transport networks, and the historical roots of modern concepts of ageing. He has secured grants like the MQ Incubator Research Impact Prize and the Faculty of Arts Educational Leader Award for pioneering AI-enhanced learning. Notable publications include *Mediterranean Timescapes* (2023) and edited volumes on shopping and transport in antiquity.

Laurence has received awards such as the Routledge Ancient History Prize (1994) and actively engages in public lectures and media commentary on topics like Pompeii and gladiators. His work bridges academia and education, with projects like 'Animated Antiquity' aligning research with NSW school curricula.