Biography

Jennifer has extensive expertise in social research techniques and utilises Bayesian Network analysis to combine the strengths of qualitative and quantitative data analysis for research outcome that have a powerful impact on policy and strengthening Australia’s preparedness for disease outbreaks.

Jennifer started her academic career as a research chemist in Japan, then graduated as a vet from Sydney University, working for several years in rural mixed practice.

She joined the Questacon Science Circus, studying science communication at ANU and then spent three years at Tsukuba University, Japan, lecturing in science communication.

Her PhD investigated risk perception of and communication among horse owners and veterinarians around Hendra virus and the vaccine for horses.

She worked as a postdoctoral research fellow at Charles Sturt University looking at the development of a farmer-led partnership system for improved surveillance for Foot and Mouth Disease, and is a senior lecturer in Ruminant Health and Epidemiology

Jennifer is interested in the role that social and psychological factors play in how decisions are made by all stakeholders in the biosecurity, surveillance and animal health arena, and how that impacts veterinary education and training.