About
Robyn Barnacle is a Professor and Academic Lead for Research Training and Supervisor Development at RMIT University's School of Graduate Research. She holds a Doctorate in Philosophy and Religious Studies from Monash University (1999) and a Bachelor's in Philosophy and Religious Studies from Murdoch University (1994). Her work focuses on research education, gender equality, and culture change initiatives such as the award-winning Respectful Research Training Program. She leads cross-disciplinary programs for HDR candidates and supervisors, emphasizing diversity, inclusion, and equitable academic practices.
Key research interests include gender equality in STEMM, research education policy, and PhD supervision strategies. Her publications address systemic barriers, leadership accountability, and institutional culture reform. She collaborates on projects like gender equity in research workplaces and knowledge exchange between academia and industry.
Barnacle supervises research projects such as 'Integrating Optical Frequency Combs Technology into Science Education' and 'Nanomaterial Coatings to Prevent Plant Diseases.' She advocates for a 'care-full' approach to PhD education, prioritizing researcher wellbeing and equitable support systems.
