Carol Ann Oliver

Prof Carol Ann Oliver is a nationally and internationally recognized Professor in Science Communication and Astrobiology at UNSW Sydney. She is affiliated with the School of Biological, Earth, and Environmental Sciences and the Earth and Sustainability Sciences Research Centre. Her roles include Deputy Director of the iCinema Research Centre and co-chair of the International Academy of Astronautics' Permanent SETI (Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence) Committee. She specializes in online learning innovation, pioneering immersive Virtual Field Trip (VFT) technologies like TALIA, and astrobiology education.

• Education: PhD in Science Communication (UNSW, 2008), MSc in Science Communication (CQU, 2003)
• Research: Focuses on science communication, astrobiology, and immersive digital learning tools. She collaborates globally with institutions like the University of Auckland and Georgia State University.

Her teaching excellence is recognized through awards including the Australian Awards for University Teaching Citation (2023) and Scientia Education Academy Fellowship. She has secured over $5M in grants, including ARC Linkage and UNSW Scientia funds, for projects like the TALIA VFT platform and museum immersive experiences.

Prof Oliver is a media commentator on astrobiology and space policy, contributing to platforms like The Conversation. She actively participates in international conferences and serves on scientific committees for major astrobiology symposia.