Richard Murray

Dr Richard Murray is a Senior Lecturer and Director of Indigenous Engagement at the School of Communication and Arts, University of Queensland. He maintains active affiliations with three major research centers: Centre for Communication and Social Change, Centre for Digital Cultures & Societies, and Research Centre in Creative Arts and Human Flourishing, demonstrating his interdisciplinary approach across communication, digital culture, and creative arts.

Dr Murray completed his academic journey with a Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor (Honours), and Masters (Coursework) from Victoria University of Wellington, culminating in a PhD from the University of Queensland with his thesis 'Constructions of good and evil: the Koreas in international news' (2020).

His research investigates journalism during periods of rapid transformation, with three primary specializations: examining the role of law and lawyers in contemporary journalism practice, analyzing rural, regional and remote journalism challenges, and studying international journalism with particular focus on South Korea and North Korea coverage. His work reveals how journalists navigate increasingly complex legal environments while maintaining professional standards, the unique pressures facing journalists in remote Australian communities, and the geopolitical complexities of reporting on divided nations. Recent publications demonstrate his ongoing concern with journalistic isolation, press freedom challenges under national security legislation, and the sustainability of regional media ecosystems.

Dr Murray actively supervises six PhD candidates exploring diverse areas including journalistic capital models for diverse audiences, public science communication during pandemics, national narratives in healing processes, and the impact of security legislation on free speech. His significant research funding includes a major Academy of Korean Studies project (2021-2028) developing UQ as a central hub for Korean Studies education and research across Queensland and Northern Territory.

His collaborative approach is evident through frequent partnerships with scholars like Caroline Graham, Peter Greste, and Rebecca Ananian-Welsh, reflecting his commitment to interdisciplinary research addressing contemporary media challenges through multiple perspectives.