Erin Siostrom

Erin Siostrom is an Associate Lecturer in Science Education at the University of the Sunshine Coast, where she has been teaching since 2019. She is also a doctoral candidate in Teacher Education and Leadership at Queensland University of Technology.

Education:

• Master of Education from Queensland University of Technology (2014)
• Bachelor of Science in Biology from University of the Sunshine Coast (2010)
• Bachelor of Education (Secondary) from University of the Sunshine Coast (2010)

Siostrom's research focuses on science education, teacher education, and education policy. Her work examines the experiences of career-change teachers, disciplinary expertise in primary science and mathematics education, and the historical development of primary specialization in Australian education policy. She investigates why professionals transition to teaching mid-career, the challenges they face, and how educational institutions can better support these transitions.

Her publications demonstrate a strong interdisciplinary approach spanning teacher education research and science communication. Her work shows particular interest in how disciplinary knowledge intersects with teaching practice, especially in primary science education, while also addressing broader issues in educational policy and practice.

Her research has been published in reputable education journals including Teaching and Teacher Education and the Australian Educational Researcher, contributing valuable insights for educational policymakers and teacher preparation programs.

As a doctoral candidate at Queensland University of Technology, Siostrom is actively contributing to the field of teacher education research. Her work on career-change teachers provides practical insights for addressing teacher shortages in Australia, particularly regarding recruitment and retention strategies for mid-career entrants to teaching.