Susan Abel

Susan Abel is an Adjunct Lecturer at the School of Psychology and Wellbeing, University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ). Her research focuses on the use and impact of digital technology across the lifespan, with recent interdisciplinary collaborations centering on early career researchers. She is also actively involved in cultural heritage, serving as a trustee of the Massim Cultural Foundation in Papua New Guinea (PNG) and managing the Massim Museum in Alotau, PNG.

Education:

• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) from University of Southern Queensland
• Bachelor of Science (Honors) from University of Southern Queensland
• Graduate Diploma in Psychological Studies from University of Southern Queensland
• Graduate Diploma in Financial Management from University of New England
• Bachelor of Economics from University of Queensland

Susan's research spans digital technology and neurodiversity, with interdisciplinary applications in social psychology, developmental psychology, and heritage conservation. Her work intersects digital heritage and museum studies, emphasizing digital repatriation and cultural preservation in PNG. She contributes to teaching at UniSQ by delivering courses such as Research Design and Methodologies and Cross-Cultural and Indigenous Psychology, with four years of tertiary teaching experience.

Professional Memberships:

• Fellow (FHEA) of the Higher Education Academy
• Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors
• Associate Member of the Australian Psychological Society
• Member of the Australian Psychological Education Interest Group (AusPLAT)

Susan is affiliated with the Centre for Heritage and Culture (CHC) at UniSQ and supervises Higher Degree by Research (HDR) students in sociology and psychological fields. Her career integrates academic rigor with cultural stewardship, reflecting a commitment to both research and heritage management.