Research in Focus

For this edition, we focus on our outstanding PhD graduates from 2025 and their journeys as early researchers. PhD students bring fresh perspectives, cutting-edge methodologies, and ideas forged at the frontier of their fields. They constitute emerging talent that represent the future of research in aviation, and the future of the industry itself. 

I come from a psychology background, and during my Master’s degree I found the area named Aviation Psychology, also known as human factors. It was a pleasant surprise to discover a field where my professional training in psychology and my personal interest in aviation could finally take off together. After working as a research assistant in Professor David O’Hare’s lab, I realised this was exactly the area I wanted to pursue, and a PhD felt like the natural next step.

UNSW quickly became my top choice, given it is one of the highest-ranked universities globally, and with the unique advantage of a dedicated School of Aviation. When I reached out to my supervisor, Associate Professor Carlo Caponecchia, he provided insightful feedback on my application preparation and showed genuine care for students’ feelings and experience of starting a new journey in a new country. 

My PhD research focuses on understanding human factors variabilities through the Functional Resonance Analysis Method (FRAM). FRAM is a systems-based approach used to explore highly complex sociotechnical systems such as aviation and healthcare. Through this work, I’ve also learned and developed my research interest in a broad range of related cutting-edge topics, such as safety culture, Safety-II, systems thinking, and resilient systems.

Another significant part of my experience has been shaped by the supportive research community around me. My peers have created an environment where we learn from one another, share ideas, support each other’s progress, and even remind each other when it’s time to step away from the computer for a well-deserved break. Their inspiration and friendship have been invaluable. 

For those considering a PhD, my piece of advice is this: understanding your research interests is important, but understanding yourself is essential. Your unique background, strengths, and experiences are not just part of your story—they are what will bring originality and spark to your research. Embrace them; they will take you further than you expect.