Claudia Diaz

Dr. Claudia Diaz is a Senior Lecturer in Biomedical Science at Charles Sturt University's School of Dentistry and Medical Sciences, Department of Anatomy and Physiology. With over 32 years of teaching experience across six Australian universities and the Oceania University of Medicine, she has taught diverse health programs including medicine, dentistry, and allied health disciplines. Previously serving as Head of Anatomy and Pathology at James Cook University, she managed over 100 staff and established North Queensland's successful body donor program.

Her research focuses on innovative anatomical education approaches, particularly body painting techniques that transform anatomy learning into an engaging visual experience. Dr. Diaz develops pedagogical strategies to shift students from memorization to deep conceptual understanding, with special expertise in online education adaptation. Her work emphasizes experiential learning, multidisciplinary integration, and academic integrity in digital environments.

Recent publications demonstrate strong focus on: art-science integration through body painting exhibitions, pandemic-era online pedagogy for anatomy instruction, and rural education innovations. Her research consistently explores how visual and experiential methods improve anatomical comprehension across diverse learner populations.

Awards & Honors:

• CSU Excellence Award (2022)
• Australian Learning & Teaching Council Citation (2011)
• Australian College of Educators Award (2010)
• Faculty Citation for Outstanding Contribution (2011)
• Change One Thing Award (2024)

She coordinates anatomical body painting projects involving student teams of models, artists and photographers, with global recognition through media coverage in 60+ countries. As curator of 'The Human Canvas' exhibition, she promotes anatomy education through public art-science initiatives.