Toby Kristian Boyson

Dr. Toby Kristian Boyson is an education-focused Senior Lecturer in electrical engineering at the School of Engineering and Information Technology, UNSW Canberra. His academic career centers on enhancing engineering pedagogy through research on affective-cognitive development, cognitive load theory, and practical lab skills, while also advocating for gender inclusion in engineering education. He established the Protolab makerspace and co-chaired YoWIE, an outreach program for women in engineering.

Research Interests:

• Engineering education pedagogy
• Cognitive load theory applications
• Practical lab skills development
• Signal processing and photonics
• Neurodivergent student inclusion
• Women’s representation in engineering

Scientific Recognition:

• Finalist, UNSW Innovation Awards (2012)
• Finalist, Australian Museum Eureka Prize (2015)

Dr. Boyson’s technical expertise spans optoelectronic instrumentation design and patented innovations in spectroscopy, water desalination, and plastic degradation technologies. He continues to shape UNSW Canberra’s educational initiatives while maintaining ties to applied research.