Sally Hurst

Sally Hurst serves as an Adjunct Fellow in the School of Natural Sciences within Macquarie University's Faculty of Science and Engineering, complemented by Professional Casual roles in University Administration and Indigenous Strategy. Her work intersects palaeontology, archaeology, and science communication to address heritage conservation challenges across Australian landscapes.

Hurst's research centers on the Found a Fossil Project, examining human interactions with fossils and cultural artefacts through museum studies, policy analysis, and public engagement. She employs social science methodologies and creative communication strategies—including comedy and storytelling—to foster community collaboration in protecting natural and cultural heritage, with particular emphasis on First Nations knowledge systems and legislative frameworks.

Her recent publications reveal a strong focus on Australian heritage management, combining legislative analysis with practical public engagement models. The research demonstrates growing integration of digital platforms and community-based approaches to bridge academic research with real-world heritage conservation.

Scientific Awards:

• Inter-Departmental Collaboration - [EX]plore Conference Organising Committee (2022)

Hurst leads the active Found a Fossil research project (2021–present), generating significant media engagement including two press features covered by six news outlets and eight social media platforms. While specific grant funding isn't detailed, the project has produced peer-reviewed publications and public resources. No student supervision activities are documented.

Her collaborative network includes the Australian Museum (where she serves as Education Presenter since 2018) and the [EX]plore Conference Organising Committee. The Found a Fossil initiative operates as her primary research vehicle, utilizing online platforms and public events to connect scientific communities with citizen discoverers of heritage materials.