Louise Puslednik

Dr. Louise Puslednik is a Senior Lecturer in Curriculum and Pedagogy (Science Education) at the University of Southern Queensland's School of Education. With a background in biological research, she focuses on integrating authentic, hands-on learning in science education to empower 21st-century learners. Her qualifications include a BEnvSc(Hons) from the University of Wollongong (1999), a GDipEd(Sec) (2014), and a PhD (2006).

Research Interests: Science Education, Pedagogy, Authentic Learning, STEM Education, Inclusive Education, and strategies to engage rural students. She emphasizes bridging classroom theory with real-world applications, such as breast cancer research collaborations with the University of Sydney.

Awards: Recipient of the prestigious $20,000 Mentoring Girls in Maths Award (2019) from the Australian Mathematical Sciences Institute (AMSI), recognizing her leadership in fostering girls' engagement in STEM. Her work has been featured in the Sydney Morning Herald and the documentary *Women's Work*.

Grants & Collaborations: Led projects like the UniSQ Building Capacity Grant (2022–2023) with ACU to enhance evidence-based teaching practices and a Seed Grant exploring science animations in pedagogy with an international team. Collaborates with Prof. Patrick Brennan on rural STEM initiatives.

Teaching & Mentorship: Previously a Science Teacher and Coordinator at St Matthew’s Catholic School (2015–2021), and a Science Education Officer in the Diocese of Bathurst (2020–2021). Organizes regional STEM immersion programs for girls, partnering with universities to expose students to advanced research opportunities.

Labs/Teams: Active in the University of Sydney’s Rural Women in STEM Immersion program and the Authentic Research Mentor Programme, which has transformed rural students' learning outcomes through collaborative research projects.