Cassandra Gauld

Dr. Cassandra Gauld is a Lecturer at the University of Newcastle, specifically within the School of Psychological Sciences under the College of Engineering, Science and Environment. She specializes in applied social psychology with a focus on road safety and driver behavior.

• PhD in Social Psychology from Queensland University of Technology
• Current research explores smartphone use while driving, normative influences, and public education messaging
• Her work extends to active transportation and antibiotic overuse education

Her research has significantly influenced Australian road safety policy, particularly regarding smartphone regulations. She collaborates with QLD Department of Transport and serves as Secretary of ACRS NSW Chapter. Her publications focus on mixed-methods approaches combining qualitative and quantitative analysis.

Scientific recognition includes:

• 2024 UON Impactful Research Award
• 2022 ACRS Peter Vulcan Award
• Multiple UON Excellence Awards

Her recent work examines:

• Smartphone distraction mitigation
• Autonomous vehicle trust dynamics
• Indigenous driver licensing barriers
• Normative behavior change strategies