Ashley Edwards

Dr. Ashley Edwards is an Associate Professor in Zoology at the University of Tasmania's School of Natural Sciences, within the College of Science and Engineering. She specializes in the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL), focusing on flexible assessment and student engagement, alongside endocrine physiology research. Her notable achievements include co-winning the IgNobel Prize in Physics (2019) for elucidating wombats' cubed feces formation and receiving multiple teaching awards, including a National Citation (2011). She holds a BSc (Hons) from Macquarie University, a PhD from the University of Tasmania (2000), and a Grad Cert in University Learning and Teaching (2006).

Her research spans comparative endocrinology, particularly in reptiles, examining hormonal regulation of reproduction and metabolism. She has led or co-led seven funded projects, including studies on lizard reproductive decisions and environmental chemical impacts. Edwards currently serves as Zoology Major Coordinator and Associate Head of Learning and Teaching in Natural Sciences, emphasizing pastoral care and curriculum innovation.

Publications highlight her dual focus: biomechanical studies on animal physiology and pedagogical innovations. She has supervised doctoral candidate Laura Maeve Parsley and collaborates with organizations like HERDSA and ACSME. Her work bridges ecological physiology and educational practice, fostering student-centered approaches in science education.